Smithfield organization bringing hope to those in need through angel flights

Submitted by Adventist World Aviation

Walter is a 22-month-old sweet little boy with stage 4 neuroblastoma cancer, a very rare type of cancerous tumor that almost always affects children. Walter was diagnosed when he was only 7 months old when his eyes began swelling.

A tumor was discovered and treatment began immediately with emergency radiation. Sadly, the cancer spread quickly and mercilessly. It was suggested that Walter seek treatment at the Children’s Hospital in Charlotte. Traveling over 1,100 miles from his home in Wisconsin would be grueling for little Walter. This was the problem and Adventist World Aviation was able to provide the solution.

An “angel flight” is free air transportation for passengers in need of medical treatment far from home or other missions of community service.

As it turned out, another mission of mercy was underway as Pastor Ric Swaningson, president of AWA, was traveling from North Carolina to Wisconsin to offer comfort to the family whom had just lost their dear beloved wife, mother, grandmother and faithful Christian woman. Mrs. Lucille is peacefully resting in Jesus until that blessed day of His return.

When Pastor Ric read the request for the angel flight for Walter, his heart rejoiced in God’s perfect timing. He responded at once that AWA would take not just a part of the flight, but the entire journey. AWA’s Chief of Maintenance, Kyle Stevenson, accompanied Pastor Ric for the long flight.

The flight was blessed with perfect weather and the precious cargo arrived safely to his desired destination. Walter slept most of the flight, but he also showed his energetic side as he ran around the plane at the airport. Please pray for this darling little boy. On good days when he is not in the hospital, Walter plays with his trucks and enjoys being outside.

When you partner with Adventist World Aviation, these flights of mercy are made possible.

After Pastor Ric returned to AWA headquarters in Smithfield, he received a plea for help with an elderly man who needed transportation from Georgia to North Carolina. James, affectionately nicknamed Butch, had plans to come live with his daughter due to his wife recently succumbing to COVID-19. Butch and the rest of his family fought the virus and recovered, but sadly his wife did not. The distance may have been somewhat relatively short, but the impact was huge.

Many people would not know where to turn. Adventist World Aviation is here for that reason. We can help. We are here to serve.

Your partnership with AWA enables these flights that are answers to prayer. The love of Jesus is shared on the wings of a plane.

To learn more, or to make a charitable donation, visit www.flyawa.org or email info@flyawa.org.