On Wings of Hope

I have GOT to tell you more about this organization.

Saturday, I met with the president of Wings of Hope to work out details about the race, and to learn more about the organization. The bottom line: I couldn't have chosen a better charity to nominate.

Not only do they reach over a million people worldwide, they also run an air ambulance service here in the U.S. It is available 24/7, and is the only such service that provides free transport even to non-ambulatory patients. They typically fly two to three missions per day. Beyond transport, Wings of Hope also negotiates with the hospitals to provide the treatments free of charge, giving the chance of a normal life to many who would otherwise never get it.

The planes are set up to carry stretchers, medical staff, oxygen and medication dispensing equipment, anything the patient might need. A large portion of the transports they provide are for children with birth defects that require multiple treatments or surgeries. When I was there, a crew of volunteer pilots returned from transporting a four year old boy being fitted for a prosthetic leg. They shared with me how rewarding the work is, and at times, how difficult. I deeply admire their dedication, and the professionalism and high standards of the operation.

Their work doesn't stop here, though. They have volunteers around the world, and something like 200 planes providing support to those in most desperate need in Africa, Central and South America. But rather than just dropping off food or medicine, Wings of Hope builds partnerships with the local community and together they work toward self-sufficiency.

Thanks for reading along, and for helping make a difference to so many through Wings of Hope. I'm proud, honored, and humbled to be a part of their efforts!