In this episode of Take Off Talk, Jess interviews Tina from Kelsey's Dream, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children with cancer. Founded in memory of Tina's daughter, Kelsey, the organization provides a play therapy toy called Hopper, the Cancer Crusher, to hospitals across the U.S. to help young patients understand their treatment. Tina shares heartwarming stories of how Hopper has become a comforting companion for many children, and discusses ways listeners can support Kelsey's Dream in its mission to bring hope and healing to families affected by cancer.

In this heartwarming episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Ben, a dedicated volunteer pilot with Angel Flight East, who shares his inspiring journey of combining his passion for flying with a purpose-driven mission. Ben, who has been flying out of Wings Airport in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania for over a decade, discovered Angel Flight East through fellow aviation enthusiasts and has been volunteering for three years. He recounts memorable flights, including one where he and his daughter helped transport a family in need to Boston for a critical medical procedure. Ben emphasizes the joy and fulfillment he finds in using his flying skills to assist others, highlighting the professionalism and community spirit of Angel Flight East. He encourages other pilots to join this rewarding experience and assures potential clients of the organization's commitment to safety and comfort. Ben's story is a testament to the power of giving back and the unique opportunities that public benefit flying offers to both pilots and passengers alike.

In this heartwarming episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Mitch, a dedicated volunteer pilot with Angel Flight East. Mitch shares his journey of flying compassion flights for over 20 years, touching lives with his selfless service. He recounts a memorable flight with a mother and her child battling cancer, where a simple act of letting her fly the plane brought laughter and relief. Mitch's passion for flying and helping others is evident as he discusses the camaraderie among pilots and the support from air traffic controllers and FBOs. His story highlights the incredible impact of Angel Flight organizations, offering free flights to those in need and creating lasting bonds between pilots and passengers. Mitch's message is clear: the joy of flying is amplified when it's for a cause, and he encourages more pilots to join this rewarding mission.

Tune in to hear more about Mitch's inspiring experiences and the difference Angel Flight makes in people's lives.

In this heartfelt episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Ed, a former diagnostic radiologist whose life took an unexpected turn due to chronic health issues, including peripheral neuropathy. Despite facing numerous challenges and being told by conventional medicine that there was no hope, Ed embarked on a journey of self-advocacy and holistic healing. Through faith, prayer, and unconventional treatments, he defied the odds, running marathons and reclaiming his life. Angel Flight East played a pivotal role in his journey, providing crucial transportation to medical appointments when all seemed lost. Ed's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the importance of exploring all avenues of healing. His experience underscores the need for greater awareness of holistic practices and the invaluable support of organizations like Angel Flight East. Join us as we explore Ed's inspiring journey of resilience and hope.

In this heartwarming episode of Take Off Talk, we meet Debbie, a resilient passenger who shares her incredible journey with Angel Flight East. Diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy over a decade ago, Debbie's path has been challenging, marked by two heart transplants and countless trips to the Cleveland Clinic. Financial constraints and the long 12-hour drive from Virginia to Ohio made these trips daunting, until Angel Flight East stepped in. With the help of compassionate pilots like Kley, who went above and beyond to ensure her comfort, Debbie found a lifeline. Her story highlights the profound impact of Angel Flight East, not just in easing travel burdens, but in fostering a community of support and friendship. Debbie's experience underscores the importance of organizations like the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association in connecting patients with vital resources. Her gratitude and advocacy for these services shine through, reminding us of the power of kindness and community in times of need.

This week’s episode of Take Off Talk features one of our newer passengers, Ken, who has stage four cancer. Listen to his heartfelt story about all the different medical challenges he has overcome. Despite these challenges, Ken still continues to stay positive, and shares his experiences working with Angel Flight East.

Meet Mounyroth, a graduate student in Philadelphia, who was facing a difficult choice: continue his studies and career path or prioritize the travel needed for essential medical treatments far from home. The long, costly trips were becoming unmanageable alongside his studies and mounting expenses.

Then, Mounyroth found Angel Flight East. With free flights from our dedicated volunteer pilots, he can reach the specialized care he needs without sacrificing his future. Now, Mounyroth can pursue his degree with peace of mind, knowing he has access to critical treatments.

Family Reach is the only national nonprofit focused solely on helping people with cancer access food, housing, utilities, and transportation. Angel Flight East partners with Family Reach to ensure our patients not only have access to care, but other resources as well.