From an End...

The best option for Barbara’s care was in Atlanta. Specialists could find out exactly what was wrong. From there, they could start an effective treatment plan. 

However, an obstacle stood between Barbara and life-changing care. The hospital was a five-hour drive from her home in Florida, spanning almost 350 miles – and that was just going one way. It would be easier to take a commercial flight, but Barbara didn’t have the resources to pay for a round-trip ticket. “I’m unemployed due to my condition,” said Barbara, “and my funds are very limited.” 

It seemed like the neuro-muscular condition would take over Barbara’s life. With nowhere to turn and no way to get there, how would Barbara receive the care she so desperately needed? 

...To a New Beginning

However, Barbara’s story wasn’t over yet! Right when she ran into a what seemed like a definite end, Barbara found out about Mercy Medical Angels and the Hogan Foundation. The two nonprofits teamed up to help Barbara, arranging her travel and paying for round-trip tickets. 

With travel assistance, she was able to fly to Atlanta to see the specialists. After staying for a few days, she flew back to her home in Florida. Barbara was well on her way to a brand-new start. 

"Relief from Stress"

When asked about how she would describe Mercy Medical Angels, Barbara answers with hope and gratitude. “They were sure a relief from stress,” said Barbara, “which I had a lot of due to dealing with a progressive neuro-muscular condition and being on disability.” 

When an illness strikes, it can be hard to go on. This task is even more difficult when the illness doesn’t fit into any known categories, and life-changing care is too far away. But with travel assistance from Mercy Medical Angels and the Hogan Foundation, patients can access the care they need. And when the nonprofits give patients like Barbara wings to fly past their challenges, they can find new beginnings.