Flight Story #1549
Miami, Florida > Vancouver, British Columbia
Madyson was far from home when she received heartbreaking news: her newborn nephew, Jalen, was in palliative care, and her family had been told he was nearing the end of his life.
Suddenly, getting home to Vancouver was all that mattered.
Jalen had only recently been born. Madyson had been there when her aunt gave birth, caring for Jalen’s siblings during the delivery and then meeting her new nephew for the first time.
She was excited for everything that was supposed to come next.
Madyson is incredibly close with her nieces and nephews and shares a deep relationship with their mother. She looked forward to having that same bond with Jalen and being part of his life as he grew.
Then, without warning, everything changed.
“Jalen’s palliation was extremely unexpected and sudden for the family. We dreamt of an entire future together.”
At the time, Madyson was visiting Miami and had planned to drive back to Vancouver. But after receiving the call from her family, there wasn’t enough time to make the long journey by car.
Living on a limited income also meant a last-minute flight was beyond what she could afford.
“I am heartbroken and would appreciate being there with my family and to say goodbye.”
For Madyson, getting home wasn’t only about saying goodbye. She wanted to support her aunt and be surrounded by the family she loves so deeply.
Being together also held important cultural meaning.
“My family and I are Indigenous and in our culture we prioritize family and being together. This is especially important in order provide support for Jalen to cross over into the spirit world.”
Thanks to the generosity of Give A Mile donors, Madyson received a compassionate flight from Miami to Vancouver, giving her the chance to get home to Jalen and her family.
"Having this flight would mean the world to me, as it would allow me to be with my family and to support them."
This family had dreamed of an entire future with Jalen. When that future suddenly changed, compassionate donors helped make sure distance didn’t keep Madyson away.
She could go home, stand beside her family, and surround little Jalen with love during precious time together.
💙 You can help another family be together when it matters most. Donate miles, points or funds today. ✈️