03/08/2026
What better way to introduce our newest board member and activity director, while continuing to spread awareness of the amazing things Angel Flight East offers!
This is Brooke Hughes, her husband Shawn, and their baby Liam (what a coincidence with the name, right?). Liam was born with a rare condition that has only affected about 150 people worldwide. Spina Bifida is one congenital defect that this condition causes. Brooke is so excited to work with our foundation and continue to spread awareness.
When you’re 9 months old, your biggest job should be learning to crawl, not traveling across the state for medical care.
Recently, AFE volunteer pilot John had the honor of flying sweet Liam and his parents, Brooke and Shawn, from Altoona to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for treatment.
Liam makes this trip at least twice a month. By car, it’s a 4.5-hour drive each way — plus the added cost of a hotel and unpaid time off work. But beyond the distance, there’s another challenge: Liam requires catheterization every 3 hours around the clock. Managing that level of care during a long drive is incredibly difficult and stressful.
That’s where Angel Flight East steps in.
In just a fraction of the time, Pilot John safely flew this brave little traveler and his loving parents to Blue Bell, PA, so they could easily get to CHOP, turning a long, exhausting journey into a smooth and compassionate one. What could have been an overwhelming day became one filled with care, dignity, and a little extra peace of mind.
This is the heart of Angel Flight East’s mission, providing free air transportation to families who need access to life-saving medical care, easing financial burdens, and supporting them every mile of the way.
John, thank you for being the kind of hero who trades runway miles for smiles.
Know a family who could benefit from Angel Flight East? Share this story and help us spread the word.
Philadelphia Inquirer The Chestnut Hill Local Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
