From 2014 to 2017, our passenger Rick and his wife Linda flew with Angel Flight West to access Rick’s experimental treatment for brain cancer at University of California San Francisco (UCSF), almost nine hours away by car from the couple’s Eugene home. Rick passed away in August 2017, leaving behind a legacy of love.
Upon his diagnosis, Rick was only expected to live for 14 months, but his expert medical team extended his life, giving him two additional years with his loved ones. “Our whole family firmly believes that Rick survived for three years because he was able to get the best treatment at UCSF. Because of Angel Flight West, we never missed an appointment,” Linda says.
Rick and his family touched the lives of AFW’s staff and volunteers during Rick’s hard-fought battle. And today, seven years after his passing, his family still donates each year in memory of their beloved husband and brother.
“Angel Flight West has been on the top of our donation list for the last eight years,” says Rick’s sister Laurie, “and we will continue to give because of your sincere caring about my dear brother. It would have been difficult for Rick and Linda to get to Rick’s needed treatment without your kind, generous, and selfless help.
“We are honored to contribute to your mission. And we’re very grateful to the volunteers who donate their time to this worthy cause.”
In addition to giving back each year, the entire family also celebrates his February birthday by enjoying a slice of carrot cake, Rick’s favorite treat. They laugh, share photos of their homemade cakes, and remember the light Rick brought to the world. “He was joyful to the very end,” says Linda.
Whether you give to support AFW or in honor or memory of a loved one, like our passenger Rick, your generosity brings hope to individuals and their families. Click here to learn more and to donate today.
