I was diagnosed with Leukemia on 9/11/01. Being in DC, there were no beds available in DC or NYC. I had to get to M D Anderson in Houston, but didn't know about Mercy Medical/Air Compassion For Veterans. Had I known then, I wouldn't have had to drive, but could have used ACFV. Therefore, I got involved so other vets could be properlytaken care of.

On Sep. 11, 2001 I was diagnosed with Leukemia. Because of the tragedy in NYC and at the pentagon, I was unable to receive treatment in either cities primary cancer facilities. They were hoping/expecting to be treating many thousands. As a result, I found care at MD Anderson in Houston, but the airlines were not flying. I ended up driving. Later, I learned about Angel Flight (a member of the Mercy Medical Airlift team of causes) and that they could have gotten me to Houston. I also learned about their efforts to help wounded warriors through the Air Compassion for Veterans and Angel Bus. MMA also is a primary provider of emergency air transportation after natural disasters like Katrina. In fact, MMA flew over 10,000 rescue sorties after Katrina - second only to the military. I joined the board as a result of what I learned. I can't begin to explain the feeling to see the smile on an 11 year old girls face as she gets off a general aviation plane at her Shriner's Hospital. MMA is an organization using 98% of funds for people in need.

I am a Vietnam vet. Fortunately, I was not seriously wounded. Last year I was priviledged to attend a function for veterans, sponsored by Air Compassion for Veterans. They flew in 10-12 veterans undergoing serious rehabilitation from Washington DC to Virginia Beach. What a wonderful organization. Upon checking, I find that even as a Vietnam vet, I have access to their flights/transportation assets. I'm sold on ACV.