and their healthcare facilities
For Chek Uwakwe, Angel Flight West’s (AFW’s) mission feels personal and close to home.
“Growing up, my sister battled sickle cell disease and underwent a bone marrow transplant. I remember my parents driving hundreds of miles multiple times a week to get her to life-saving appointments,” says Chek.
Living far away from the medical facility where Chek’s sister was receiving treatment in California left the family no other option but to drive to the facility each week to ensure she could access care.
“Watching my parents do this for her, I saw how difficult it was. I know how difficult access to health care can be for families. Now I’m in a position to give back — my sister’s experience inspired me to volunteer as an Earth Angel.”
Since joining AFW as an Earth Angel driver in May, Chek has already completed four missions and even has a few more scheduled in the coming weeks. While he’s volunteering as an Earth Angel, Chek is also working toward becoming a professional pilot and hopes to fly as a volunteer for AFW in the future.
“Being able to transport patients who need special medical care would be an incredible way to combine my passion for flying with helping other people,” shares Chek.
In the meantime, he’s happy to continue giving car rides to patients in need.
“The passengers are always very grateful. I get to have a lot of great conversations and hear their stories as well. They share how much they enjoy AFW and how much they appreciate the ride,” says Chek. “Though they’re going through something, or they’re hurting and in pain, they keep a smile on their face.”
“If I can help ease that burden for another family even in a small way, it’s an honor.”
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To find out how you can get involved as an Earth Angel driver with Angel Flight West, please visit www.angelflightwest.org/earth-angels.
