Traveling with a sick child can be daunting, but for Taylor Conner, mom to Kendall battling a rare disease, it was nearly impossible. Taylor joins Jess Ames and Maddy Beck to share her heartfelt appreciation for the Angel Flight experience. She discusses how this vital service helped Kendall, who battles mitochondrial disease, travel safely to receive necessary medical care without the stress and burden of a long drive. This episode dives into the immense challenges Taylor faces when traveling long distances with Kendall for specialist appointments. Kendall’s fight is ongoing, and research is critical. Learn more about this disease and donate to Kendall’s research fund at the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.

Have you ever considered opening your home to someone in need? In today's episode on Take Off Talk, Maddy and Jess chat with Cathy Davis, the heart and soul behind Host for Hospitals, a local non-profit providing a lifeline for patients and families facing medical challenges. Listen and discover how Host for Hospitals offers a unique alternative to traditional hospital housing, creating a warm and welcoming environment for families traveling for specialized care. Cathy explains why becoming a host is an enriching experience, fostering connections and offering comfort during difficult times. She also shares inspiring stories about the program's impact on hosts and guests. You will also discover how YOU can get involved, open your home, and be part of something exceptional. Tune in for a heartwarming conversation that will inspire you to make a difference in others' lives.

Ready to soar beyond the clouds? In this episode, Maddy Beck and Jess Ames welcome Volunteer Pilot Luis Quinones, an aviator with a heartwarming story and a love for the skies. With nearly a decade of flying under his belt, Luis shares his unique journey from helicopter beginnings to his current adventures in his upgraded Mooney M20J. But it's not just about the flying; it's about the lives he touches through his volunteer work with Angel Flight East. From the poignant stories of those he's flown to the personal trials that shaped his resilience—including his kidney transplant story—Luis exemplifies the spirit of giving and adventure. This episode is sure to inspire and uplift. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a little bit of turbulence!

Have you ever been dismissed by a doctor and ended up having a serious medical condition? Erika Liess’ story is all too common. She shares her experience with Chiari malformation, the frustrating journey to get diagnosed, and the amazing support she found online and with Angel Flight East. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt unheard by the medical establishment. Erika's story is a powerful reminder that you are your own best advocate for your health, and there is hope and support out there for those facing chronic illness.

Facing end-of-life care can be a daunting experience, but Jess Ames and Maddy Beck are here to shed light on the support available. Joining them today is Jonathan, a Mission Support Coordinator from Grace Healthcare Services, to discuss the comforting embrace of hospice care. Jonathan recounts the challenges of navigating the healthcare system to find a solution for the patient’s transportation needs and how Angel Flight East provided a lifeline in their time of need. Overall, the message of Jonathan's story is that there is support available for people who are going through end-of-life care. Angel Flight East and hospice care can provide comfort and support to patients and families during a difficult time.

The Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA) is a leading organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The organization has served the HCM Spectrum Disorder Community since 1996. In this episode, Lisa Salberg, the Founder and CEO of HCMA, talks about the steps she takes to reach patients with misdiagnosis. She also shares how HCMA partnered with Angel Flight East. Tune in for more!

In times of adversity, the strength of community emerges as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the significance of reaching out for help. In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the profound impact of Angel Flight with guest Shannon Sinico, who shares her personal journey battling a brain tumor and the invaluable support she received from the organization. Shannon recounts her experiences flying to and from medical appointments, highlighting the compassion and care of the pilots. Amidst her health struggles, Shannon's resilience shines through as she navigates misdiagnoses, surgeries, and the challenges of advocating for herself. Through it all, Angel Flight not only provides transportation but also a supportive ear. Join us as Shannon's story reminds us of the power of community and the importance of reaching out for help in times of need.

In this heartwarming episode, hosts Jess Ames and Maddy Beck welcome Ashlyn Dugan, the founder of Love from Liam Foundation—the partner organization of Angel Flight East. Ashlyn shares her inspiring journey of creating the foundation when her son Liam was born with spina bifida. The conversation touches on the challenges these families face, the importance of community support, and Love from Liam's impactful events. As Ashlyn opens up about her daily life, running a coffee shop, and juggling motherhood, we get a glimpse into the strength and passion that drives her commitment to making a difference. Hear Ashlyn’s powerful message of hope and encouragement for families facing similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of embracing the light at the end of the tunnel.