Lung Cancer Patient Accesses Life-Saving Clinical Trial
A Shocking Diagnosis
In 2013, Diane was working as a teacher. She was active and healthy, and was two years away from celebrating her 60th birthday. All that changed when she was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. This diagnosis came as a shock to Diane, especially since she was a non-smoker.
"It was like a kick to the stomach," said Diane. But despite lung cancer's surprise attack, Diane was ready to fight back.
Barriers Put Up...
Diane fought a battle with lung cancer for a decade and counting. In 2023 - the tenth year since her diagnosis - her doctor could no longer offer treatment. Her last option at life-saving care was a clinical trial in Virginia. This was a problem, considering Diane lives in Florida. Driving wasn't a viable option. She would have to fly to the clinical trial.
This brought up two more problems. First, medical bills were putting a strain on Diane's wallet, so she couldn't afford a round-trip airline ticket. Second, she was immunocompromised from cancer treatment, and flying commercial ran the risk of catching something her immune system couldn't handle. How would she access the clinical trials?
...And Taken Down
"That was when I found out about Mercy Medical Angels' volunteer pilot program," said Diane, "and they gave me the most amazing experience."
The volunteer pilots made it possible for Diane to fly twice a month for her clinical trial in private aircraft - at no cost to her. This helped her regain financial stability. Now that she wasn't stressed about how to pay for medically necessary travel, she also was able to maintain her physical and mental wellness.
The barriers to care were taken down. Now, Diane was able to fight her battle with renewed strength.
"You Have All Made a Huge Impact..."
When asked about how Mercy Medical Angels helped her, Diane's answer overflows with gratitude, praise, and hope. "Mercy Medical Angels is exceptional. I have enjoyed and appreciated every pilot who donated his or her time to help me."
"From the whole Mercy Medical Angels team - especially the coordinators - to every pilot I have flown with, you have all made a huge impact on my life."
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