Flight Story #1173
Hamilton, ON to Victoria, BC – 100,057 Scene+ Points + $312.40 CAD
James’ journey from Hamilton to Victoria to say a final goodbye to his father was made possible by Give A Mile and our generous donors. For James, this flight was more than just travel—it was a chance to bring closure to a relationship that had been central to his life, despite the physical distance that often separated them. When James learned his father had suffered a brain hemorrhage and aneurysm, leaving him on life support, he had to reach his father as fast as he could.
James’ father was not just a parent; he was a constant presence in James’ thoughts and heart, even when they were miles apart. Although James had planned to visit him soon, the sudden deterioration of his father’s health left him scrambling to get to Victoria in time. The urgency of the situation and James’ limited resources made this trip seem impossible—until Give A Mile stepped in.
This flight allowed James to be there for his father during his final moments and to take care of his father’s dying wishes. It gave James the opportunity to gather his father’s personal belongings, plan the funeral, and bring his father’s ashes home to Hamilton, ensuring that his son would always have something to remember his grandfather by.
For James, this journey was about closure, healing, and honoring the bond he shared with his father. It was the fulfillment of a lifetime spent hoping for more time together, even as that time was cut tragically short. Seeing his father one last time brought James the peace he needed, knowing he could carry out his father’s final wishes and hold onto the memories they shared.
As he sat at the airport waiting for his flight home, James sent us this message: “I really do appreciate everything, this actually helped me so much. If I never made it here it would have been something that bothered me forever. I got to sit in his room with all his stuff and help pack it to ship to Ontario, it really was the best from the worst. I got my dad’s wedding ring that was his dad’s and I’ll never take it off”
I really do appreciate everything to the point of I don't know what to say, this actually helped me so much. If I never made it here it would have been something that would have bothered me forever.
You guys are amazing.I am beyond words
I got to sit in his room with all his stuff, look through it and help pack it up.
I got my dad's wedding ring that was his dad's. I'll never take it off.
James
Flight Recipient
This flight was made possible by the kindness of donors who understood how important it was for James to be there. Your generosity gave a son the chance to say goodbye, honor his father, and begin the process of healing.
Thank you for making this journey possible. Your support provided James with the closure he needed and ensured that his father’s legacy will live on through his family.