Take Off Talk with Angel Flight East

Distance can be a major barrier to accessing quality healthcare in a timely manner. For patients, access to air transportation can make all the difference in getting the treatment they need. However, flights can be expensive, and putting off medical care because of costs can put you or your loved ones at risk. That's where Angel Flight East comes in.Welcome to Take Off Talk with Angel Flight East, a nonprofit dedicated to facilitating free air transportation for children and adults with medical conditions who need treatment far from home. Our organization covers a 14 state footprint from Virginia to Ohio to Maine and for further distances, we partner with other public benefit flying organizations.  No matter how many times you need to get to your medical treatment or see a loved one in need, we are here to help. Unfortunately, few people know about free services like ours, and thus cannot use them when needed. We don't know how many people forgo medical care because they don't have accessible transportation, and that's what this podcast is here to change.Listen to real life stories from people who have used our services to get the care they need on time. Hear from our volunteers and staff about why they choose to help at their own expense. Our volunteer pilots use their private planes to fly patients to destinations, and pay for all expenses for each flight. By sharing their stories, we hope to inspire anyone who wishes to volunteer and become a part of our community.AFE provides help to social workers and case managers who need assistance in order to provide the best quality care. They are some of the most overworked people in healthcare, and we want them to understand how easy it is to use Angel Flight East. We aim to be a resource in their back pocket in case any of their patients need help traveling to medical care far from home. We also partner with various nonprofit organizations to provide additional resources to our patients, including assistance with household bills, ground transportation, and help with hotel expenses. Each episode of Take Off Talk is released in audio and video formats, so listeners can see the generous people on our team.The show is hosted by passionate AFE staff member Jessica “Jess” Ames. Jess is the Outreach & Events Director at Angel Flight East and has been involved with the organization since 2014. In her time with the company, she’s worn many hats - as working in nonprofits often requires. From the first programs and events director to flight coordination, Jess has communicated with patients, pilots, family members, donors, and beyond. She can answer any question you have about how the program works. Learn from the host and invited guests who share their experiences from both ends - as recipients and volunteers. If you're a healthcare worker or a patient in need of air travel and flight services, AFE is here for you. In fact, we're here for everyone. Join us in our mission and tune in to Take Off Talk to learn more. For more information about Angel Flight East, please visit our website at www.angelflighteast.org or call our office at 215-358-1900!  You can also reach the host by email- jessames@angelflighteast.org.

Embracing Life's Journey: How Angel Flight East Transformed My Battle with Cancer

Toni shares her experience with Angel Flight East, a charitable organization providing transportation for individuals with terminal illnesses. She discusses her journey with stage four metastatic breast cancer, the support she receives from her community, and the positive impact of Angel Flight East on her life. Visit our website at: https://angelflighteast.org/

10-20
19:40

A Journey of Hope: How Angel Flight East Transformed My Life w/ Roxanne

Angel Flight East provides crucial transportation for patients like Roxanne, who require frequent travel for medical treatments. Roxanne shares her journey with stage four gastrointestinal cancer and how Angel Flight East has been a lifesaver, offering free flights to New York City for her chemotherapy sessions, alleviating the stress of long commutes and allowing her to focus on her health. Visit our website at: https://angelflighteast.org/

10-06
19:01

Finding Hope in the Skies: Laura's Journey with Angel Flight East

In this episode of "Take Off Talk," Laura shares her experience with Angel Flight East. After a foot surgery led to a series of medical complications, Laura found herself needing specialized care outside her local area. She praises Angel Flight East for helping her access out-of-state medical treatment, highlighting the kindness and dedication of the pilots and staff. Laura's story underscores the importance of patient advocacy and the challenges of navigating healthcare in major metropolitan areas. Visit our website at: https://angelflighteast.org/

08-18
18:21

From Seizures to Cycling: Patrick’s Journey of Resilience and Hope

In this episode of "Take Off Talk," Patrick shares his journey. After undergoing life-changing brain surgery, Patrick sought assistance from Angel Flight to travel to the Cleveland Clinic for follow-up care. Although he ultimately found alternative transportation, Patrick's story highlights the importance of accessible travel options for patients and our organization's commitment to connecting individuals with the resources they need. Visit our website at: https://angelflighteast.org/

08-04
16:29

From Diagnosis to Hope: How Angel Flight East Transformed My Journey

In a recent episode of Take Off Talk, Jess interviews Niki, a cancer patient who shares her journey with Angel Flight East. Diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, Niki discusses the challenges of finding specialized treatment; and how Angel Flight East has been instrumental in providing her with efficient and cost-effective travel to receive care. Niki highlights the supportive community and the positive experiences she has had with the pilots, and the importance of advocating for oneself in their medical journey. Visit our website at: https://angelflighteast.org/

07-21
18:59

Discover the Heartwarming Journey of Beth with Angel Flight East

In this episode of Take Off Talk, frequent flyer Beth shares her journey with Angel Flight East, a nonprofit organization providing free air transportation for medical treatment. Beth discusses her genetic condition, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and the challenges of traveling to Boston for specialized care. She highlights the invaluable support and community she has found through Angel Flight, emphasizing the organization's role in her medical journey and the importance of their services for patients in need.

07-07
15:51

From Service to Support: The Unseen Heroes of Luke's Wings

In a world where the news often highlights the challenges faced by veterans, there are stories of hope and resilience that deserve to be told. Luke's Wings is one such story—a beacon of support for wounded service members and their families. Founded in 2008, this organization steps in where government assistance ends, providing complimentary flights to reunite families during critical times of recovery.

06-23
15:48

Turning Challenges into Hope: Kelsey's Dream and Angel Flight East

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.

06-09
19:22

Turning Miles into Miracles: The Heart of Angel Flight East with Volunteer Pilot Ben Alimasky

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.

05-19
14:59

Turning Clouds into Hope with Volunteer Pilot Mitch VanDuyn

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.

05-05
19:15

The Journey of Hope, A Flight to Healing, Ed Jones

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.

03-17
27:58

Soaring Above: Debbie’s Journey with Angel Flight East

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.

03-03
15:27

Take Off with AFE Passenger, Ken Tarvin

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.

02-17
35:02

Take Off with AFE Passenger, Mounyroth

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.

02-03
16:06

Take Off with Partner Organization, Family Reach

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. 

01-20
18:24

Take Off with Passenger, Gina Frost

On this week’s episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Gina Frost and hearing her heartfelt testimonial on how Angel Flight East has impacted her life. 

01-06
25:00

Take Off with AFE Flight Coordinator, David

This week’s episode of Take Off Talk features our very own Flight Coordinator, David Dailey!  You may have heard us talk about David on multiple occasions and we couldn’t think of a better week to bring him into the mix.  You will hear how David came to Angel Flight, as well as what we are all most excited about this holiday season.

12-23
23:34

Flying High with Volunteer Pilot, Kley Parkhurst

When you take to the skies, real impact is measured in lives changed. In this episode, we meet Kley Parkhurst, Angel Flight East’s Pilot of the Year, whose volunteer flying has touched countless lives. Kley shares his journey from becoming a pilot in midlife to flying patients, pets, and supplies for causes like Hurricane Helene relief. Through heartfelt stories, he reveals how combining his love of aviation with service has brought him purpose, joy, and the chance to make a difference. From flying life-saving missions to coordinating pet rescues, Kley’s dedication exemplifies how passion can turn into meaningful impact.

12-23
16:31

A Conversation With Derek Ray, AFE Passenger

Jess Ames and Maddy Beck chat with Derek Ray, an AFE passenger, who looks back on how Angel Flight saved his life. He shares how taking the flight cut his travel time by a huge chunk, allowing him to get to his heart transplant surgery on time. Derek also expresses his desire to volunteer for Angel Flight after their services drastically transformed his overall outlook in life.

12-09
20:03

Take Off With Partner Organizations, Elizabeth Ameling Of Latisha's House

Jess Ames and Maddy Beck chat with Elizabeth Ameling, CEO and Founder of one of Angel Flight’s partner organizations, Latisha's House. She shares how they provide safe housing and restorative care for victims of sex trafficking and exploitation, guiding them down the path of healing and recovery. Elizabeth presents the various methods they are using to help women deal with trauma and manage negative thoughts. She also shares some success stories of victims who refused to be held back by their traumatic experiences, spreading inspiration and awareness to all.

12-02
29:10

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