Going Above and Beyond to Lift People Up |
Dear PALS SkyHope Family,
|
As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on what has truly been an extraordinary year of growth, compassion, and impact. Thanks to the steadfast support of our donors, partners, and dedicated pilots, we’ve been able to soar to new heights in our mission to provide free air transportation for patients in need.
This year, we accomplished remarkable milestones together—providing over 3,100 flights this year, helping more families, and broadening our reach to serve those in critical need. From supporting medical patients and veterans to uplifting families who might otherwise have had no way to access care, every mile flown has been a testament to the kindness and generosity of our community.
As we look forward to 2025, we are inspired by the possibilities ahead. With each donation, each flight, and each partnership, you help us transform lives. We are honored to have you by our side and are eager to see what we can achieve together in the coming year.
Thank you for your continued belief in our mission. Wishing you and yours a joyful holiday season and a hopeful start to the new year!
|
Boston Gala
4/10/25
(Tentative Date) |
Meet Michelle, an inspiring member of the PALS SkyHope family who wears many hats—a passenger, volunteer, and advocate. |
Since 2021, Michelle has flown with PALS SkyHope 17 times from her home in Pennsylvania to West Virginia University for treatment of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). These flights have provided her with a lifeline to the care she needs, but Michelle’s involvement with PALS goes far beyond being a passenger.
Michelle has channeled her gratitude into action by joining our Patient Ambassador Group, passionately spreading the word about PALS SkyHope and its mission. Her efforts have included appearances in the news, sharing her story to raise awareness, and even representing PALS SkyHope at events like the Wings and Wheels Expo.
Michelle, your dedication and enthusiasm are nothing short of extraordinary. Thank you for being a shining example of how our community thrives on compassion and collaboration! |
“I’ve been flying with PALS SkyHope as a patient for several years. Every few months, I travel to a hospital in rural West Virginia for specialized treatment unavailable closer to home. Before PALS SkyHope, my husband had to endure two 6-hour drives to drop me off and pick me up, which was exhausting for both of us. Other transportation options, like buses, trains, or commercial flights, were either logistically impossible or prohibitively expensive.
Finding PALS SkyHope was life-changing. They’ve safely gotten me to my treatments and back home for the past 3–4 years, allowing me to continue the care I need to avoid being bedridden. I’m deeply grateful to the staff and volunteer pilots who make this possible.
When I learned about the Patient Ambassador program, I knew I wanted to give back. I’ve since helped recruit patients, donors, and pilots by sharing information at events, in doctor’s offices, and even online. Volunteering has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m proud to help others discover the vital support PALS SkyHope provides.” |
PALS SkyHope hits milestone - 4,000th family served |
PALS SkyHope recently reached a significant milestone, proudly serving over 4,000 families and completing more than 33,000 flights. Since 2010, PALS SkyHope has been dedicated to removing transportation barriers, ensuring people can access life-saving medical care as many times as they need—without cost or worry. This achievement would not be possible without our dedicated volunteer pilots, who give their time, skills, and resources to provide each patient with a journey of hope and healing. Every flight represents a lifeline, making critical care accessible to those who need it most.
>> Read more |
Record Numbers for October! |
PALS SkyHope soared to new heights in October, breaking records with an incredible 392 flights completed in just one month! This milestone underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to providing free, life-saving flights for patients and families in need. These flights not only represent hope but also highlight the collective effort of our dedicated volunteer pilots and supporters who make our mission possible.
Adding to this historic achievement, PALS SkyHope has already engaged 245 unique pilots this year—a remarkable number that has shattered our previous full-year record of 194 pilots. This surge in pilot participation reflects a growing community of aviation enthusiasts who are eager to make a difference. Each pilot represents countless hours of generosity, skill, and dedication, ensuring that our passengers can access critical medical care and support. Together, we continue to set new benchmarks for impact, proving that the sky is truly the limit when we work as one. |
Mission Possible Gala recap |
The 2024 Mission Possible Gala was an unforgettable evening filled with generosity, inspiration, and heartfelt stories, as over $600,000 was raised to support PALS SkyHope's mission.
Held at the Westchester Country Club, the gala brought together our dedicated community of supporters, from pilots and volunteers to sponsors and donors, all united by a shared commitment to making a difference. The atmosphere was electric, with attendees enjoying a beautiful night of celebration and connection.
One of the highlights of the evening was speaker Gia Paddock, who moved the room with her family’s personal story of traveling with PALS SkyHope. Gia shared how PALS SkyHope has been a lifeline for her family, especially her daughter, helping her access critical medical care with compassion and support. Her story touched everyone in attendance, underscoring the impact of PALS SkyHope on the lives of so many. We extend our deepest thanks to all who attended, as well as to our generous sponsors and donors, whose support makes this life-changing work possible. |
At the 2024 Mission Possible Gala, we were honored to premiere a deeply moving new video featuring Hadley, a remarkable young woman who has been part of the PALS SkyHope family since 2014. Hadley’s journey with PALS SkyHope began at age 11, when she was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Thanks to our dedicated pilots and supporters, Hadley was able to fly over 110 times to receive the specialized treatment she needed, gaining hope and strength along the way.
Now 21 years old, Hadley’s story is one of courage, resilience, and the power of compassionate aviation. We were thrilled to share her inspiring journey with you for the first time at this year’s gala. Please take a moment to experience her story through the video below and see firsthand the impact our PALS SkyHope community makes possible. |
This year, PALS SkyHope proudly participated in the NYC Marathon for the 10th time, with 56 dedicated Team PALS runners crossing the finish line on November 2nd. Together, these runners raised over $250,000! Among them, Jack Ruppert made an outstanding fundraising contribution of $9,735.42. |
One returning runner, Laura Richardson, shares a special connection with PALS SkyHope. This year marks her third NYC Marathon and fourth overall, as well as her second time fundraising with Team PALS SkyHope. Her commitment to the cause runs deep: her sister-in-law was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma and given just two years to live. Thankfully, she was able to travel to Memorial Sloan Kettering for treatment and is now cancer-free. For Laura, the mission of PALS SkyHope—ensuring that everyone has access to critical care, no matter the distance—holds personal meaning. |
|
|
“When I find a cause as worthwhile as PALS SkyHope, it makes fundraising so much easier,” Laura shares. Her journey is one of resilience and compassion, embodying the hope and accessibility that PALS SkyHope brings to patients and families in need. |
Marine Corp Marathon Recap |
This year, PALS SkyHope proudly joined the Marine Corps Marathon for the first time! Our inaugural team of three runners was thrilled to compete on behalf of PALS SkyHope and to support the PALS for Patriots Program. We were especially honored to have one of our dedicated pilots, Todd Workman, join the team, along with Jessica Foley, who previously ran for PALS SkyHope in the NYC Marathon in 2019 and 2021. Also running was Tucker Foster, whose wife and daughter, Willow, have relied on PALS SkyHope flights for appointments in Washington, D.C.
We’re excited to grow this new program and continue the important work of supporting veterans and their families through PALS for Patriots! |
Sarah recently joined PALS SkyHope in December 2024 as the Development Coordinator. She will take charge of overseeing the PALS SkyHope’s participation in marathons and events, collaborating closely with the development team to enhance engagement and fundraising efforts. The team is thrilled to welcome Sarah aboard!
“I am so thrilled to be joining the PALS SkyHope team! I am a recent graduate of James Madison University where I gained my Bachelor’s Degree in Media Art and Design with a focus in Creative Advertising. Throughout my college career I held many leadership positions including Director of Philanthropy for my Sorority, Alpha Phi, and the VP of Community Relations on the Panhellenic Council. Through these positions I discovered my strong passion for planning events that help raise money for important philanthropies. I am so excited to bring my perspective and experience to this wonderful organization. I am already loving this position and am so grateful for the guidance of Brook, Donna, and the entire PALS SkyHope team!” |
We are excited to welcome Sam Singh as our new Accounting Manager! Sam brings expertise in financial management and will oversee PALS SkyHope's financial operations, including audits, bookkeeping, and ensuring the organization's fiscal health. His role will be pivotal in maintaining transparency and efficiency, allowing us to continue delivering our mission of providing free transportation for those in need. Welcome aboard, Sam!
“I'm excited to join the incredible team at PALS SkyHope and contribute to the organization's mission of helping others. It's an honor to support the vital work we do, and I look forward to helping the team so we can continue making a difference in people's lives."
|
A heartfelt thank you to our amazing pilots, volunteers, and donors who went above and beyond this Giving Tuesday! Your efforts in creating fundraising pages, sharing inspiring stories, and posting across social media not only raised critical funds but also spread awareness about PALS SkyHope’s mission to provide free flights for individuals in need. Every post, every share, and every dollar you raised brought us closer to ensuring that no one misses the care they deserve due to transportation barriers.
Your support truly meant the world to us—and to the patients and families we serve. |
NORD Breakthrough Summit 2024 |
NORD is the National Organization for Rare Disorders and from October 20–22, PALS SkyHope Relationship Manager Marilyn and pilot Mark Hanson represented PALS SkyHope at the NORD Breakthrough Summit in Washington, DC. With over 900 attendees from more than 340 organizations, the conference offered an excellent platform for connecting with leaders in the rare disease research community. As a sponsor, PALS SkyHope had the valuable opportunity to meet face-to-face with patient advocates, foundations, and organizations dedicated to supporting those affected by rare diseases. It was an inspiring experience that strengthened our relationships and deepened our commitment to this community. |
PALS SkyHope receives $150,000 from Alexion Charitable and $120,000 from Mother Cabrini Health Foundation |
PALS SkyHope is proud to announce two major grants totaling $270,000, which will help provide over 700 free flights for patients in need. A $150,000 grant from Alexion Charitable Foundation will support flights for patients battling rare diseases, enabling access to life-saving treatments and specialized care that is often located hundreds or thousands of miles from home. The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation has awarded $120,000 to fund flights for New York-based patients, ensuring they receive critical medical attention without the financial burden of travel. |
These grants reflect the shared commitment of PALS SkyHope and its partners to ease the transportation barriers faced by patients and families during their most vulnerable times. For individuals with rare diseases, timely access to care is essential. Alexion's support will make an extraordinary difference for patients who often require highly specialized treatment available only at select medical centers across the country.
In New York, the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation grant ensures that families grappling with serious health challenges can access the care they need without the worry of logistics or cost. From cancer treatment to organ transplants, these flights provide more than just transportation—they bring hope, dignity, and a pathway to healing for patients across the state.
With these funds, PALS SkyHope continues to grow its impact, serving more families and expanding its reach. Together, we are breaking down barriers and lifting spirits, one flight at a time.
A heartfelt Thank You to both Alexion and Mother Cabrini for their support of our mission. |
PALS SkyHope would like recognize its new and continuous grant supporters
ADP Foundation
Alexion Charitable
Catholic Health Caregivers Fund
C. Northrop and Alethea Marder Pond Foundation
Delaplaine Foundation
Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust
Dr. Scholl Foundation
The Emma and Georgina Bloomberg Foundation
Johnson & Johnson
Maine Cancer Foundation
Mancheski Foundation, Inc.
Mother Cabrini Health Foundation
Peter & Jeri Dejana Family Foundation
Robert Spiegel Fund
Ruzika Family Fund
Tompkins Community Foundation
Sage Foundation
Sanofi
SouthWest
Starbucks Foundation
Stephen and Mary Birch Foundation, Inc.
Suffolk County Marathon- I Run This Island
Walmart Foundation
William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust
As PALS SkyHope continues on its path of remaining a sustainable organization, grant support plays a key role in this journey. If you know of a foundation or are a part of an organization that would be interested in supporting PALS SkyHope’s mission, please send all information to grants@palservices.org
|
Nova's journey began when she was just a newborn. Born with a diagnosis of a Port Wine Stain birthmark on her face that alternates with hemangioma, her family discovered that the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York in Manhattan offered the specialist care she needed. The journey from their North Carolina home, however, would be a grueling 12-hour drive—a challenge for any family, especially with an infant needing weekly treatments.
Thankfully, PALS SkyHope stepped in to provide an incredible gift: free flights that bridged the long miles between Nova and the care that could make a difference. Since October 2023, Nova and her family have completed 23 flights, each one carrying them closer to healing. PALS SkyHope pilots welcome them aboard with warmth, treating Nova and her family as their own. With each flight, PALS SkyHope promises to be there, ready to support Nova's journey as long as she needs. |
KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST MONTHLY BLOG POSTS
|
If you or someone you know needs a free flight to medical care, please let us know.
|
(888) 818-1231 or (631) 694-PALS (7257) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
