From a Desert of Despair...

From there, Celia’s hopes plummeted. Three sources of income were reduced to one, and she could barely pay for her rent and car. Her family helped with some costs. Nonetheless, medical bills soon became her biggest expense. 

But as befit a graduate student, Celia dove into research. She wasn’t about to give up. Even though the cancer couldn’t be cured, she could still receive treatment that would extend and improve her life. The best option she found was a clinical trial. She applied to the trial and was accepted. “I’d be part of a study,” said Celia, “and it’s only offered in three locations in the US.” She added, “If this works, it will prolong my life and the lives of others.” 

Unfortunately for Celia, the closest location of the trial was MD Anderson in Houston, Texas. The renowned cancer care center was more than 1,000 miles from her home in Phoenix, Arizona – and that was just going one way. Not to mention, she had to go back three or four times a month. Multiple round-trip flights, in excess of 2,000 miles, would drain what little resources she had left. 

Celia felt like she was trudging through a desert, with no end in sight. 

...To an Oasis of Hope

Right when Celia’s hope was about to run dry, she found an oasis. Rest and relief came in the form of a nonprofit and an airline. The nonprofit: Mercy Medical Angels. The airline: United. 

Mercy Medical Angels arranged round-trip flights on United, at no cost to Celia and her family. Celia was able to fly from her home to MD Anderson and back again. This bridged the gap - and gave her new hope. 

"I Am Forever Grateful..."

Celia is once again preparing for graduate school. With her health trending in a positive direction, she can focus on achieving her dreams. She also knows she’s not the only person who has walked this difficult path. 

“It breaks my heart that the best possible healthcare isn’t offered everywhere in America,” said Celia. “Many have to travel to receive life-saving treatment.” 



But her next words overflow with thankfulness. “I am forever grateful to Mercy Medical Angels during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you!”