Flight Story #1522, #1523, & #1524
Vancouver, British Columbia → Calgary, Alberta
When Heidi received the call that her grandfather was nearing the end of his life, her family believed he was holding on for one reason.
“My brothers both called me this morning and told me they think Papa is waiting for me to say goodbye.”
For Heidi, Edward wasn’t just her grandfather.
“My papa and my grandma raised me since I was 10 days old, so this is like my dad.”
She remembered a lifetime of love and special moments together.
“My papa and me rode horses and he used to tell everyone I was the best granddaughter he ever had,” she shared with a smile. “He called me ‘baby’ and I went everywhere with him.”
After Heidi’s grandmother passed away, she stayed in a camper on Edward’s property for a year so she could be there for him. But life changed when she had to move to Surrey to care for her grandchildren, Xander, who was five years old, and 22-month-old Emily-Rose.
Now, with Edward close to the end of his life, Heidi desperately wanted to return home – not only to say goodbye herself, but so her grandchildren could meet their great-great-grandfather for the very first time.
Both children had never met Papa Ed.
Financial hardship made the journey impossible. Heidi was supporting her family on a limited income while raising two young children, and she simply couldn’t afford last-minute flights.
Thanks to the generosity of our Flight Hero Nancy, Heidi, Xander, and Emily-Rose received compassionate flights to Calgary, allowing three generations of one family to be together during Edward’s final days.
When they learned their flights had been approved, Heidi shared her overwhelming gratitude.
"Awesome, thank you so much. This is a miracle, a true blessing from amazing people."
And after everything was confirmed, she added:
"OMG, thank you so much... I will be posting on your site and everywhere my story and photos."
Thank you to everyone who donates miles and funds to Give A Mile. Your generosity helps families overcome financial barriers so generations can come together to share love, memories, and meaningful goodbyes.
💙 You can help another family be together when it matters most. Donate miles, points or funds today. ✈️