Flight Story #1323
Tampa, Florida > Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
When Michael learned that his mother had been placed in hospice care, his heart sank. Living in Florida and permanently disabled, he was dependent on a fixed income.
The thought of not being able to afford a flight to Philadelphia — to be by his mother’s side and support his younger siblings — filled him with fear. “I couldn’t imagine not being there for her,” he said. “She’s always been the one who held our family together.”
Michael’s mom has always been his anchor. Through every challenge life has thrown his way she has been his steady hand and biggest supporter. Now, as she faces the end of her life, Michael felt an overwhelming need to return that love — to sit with her, hold her hand, and remind her she isn’t alone. But with no way to cover the cost of travel, he wasn’t sure how that would be possible.
“When I applied for a free flight, I couldn’t imagine the courtesy, understanding, and warmth I received in such a hurtful and confusing time, I’m realizing now how blessed I am to have been approved to be with my mom and family during what I feel is the most difficult time of my life.”
The flight approval lifted a weight off his shoulders. The fear of not making it in time — of missing his mother’s final days — was replaced by a deep sense of peace. “Now that fear is gone because of Give A Mile,” Michael said. “I can consider making every day with Mom the best.”
For Michael, this flight isn’t just a journey from one state to another — it’s a bridge between heartbreak and gratitude. Each mile represents the kindness of strangers who donated their unused points or money to make moments like this possible.
His words echo the heart of what Give A Mile stands for — that every flight is more than a seat on a plane. It’s a chance for love, connection, and closure. For Michael, it’s the opportunity to spend precious time with his mother, sharing stories, laughter, and quiet moments of prayer as she nears the end of her journey.