We at Give A Mile would like to share this extra-special story, also a major milestone for our organization: our 300th flight.
Without partners like Flight Centre the outcomes for families like these would be much different, and in many cases much more difficult. Below is the original request and a follow-up message from our 300th flight recipient, Yanina.
Yanina’s story:
“Hi my name is Yanina, I am originally from Argentina and I moved to Canada 14 years ago.
Unfortunately my mom who lives in Argentina was diagnosed with Alzheimer 5 years ago, and for the last 3 years she was not able to recognize anybody in the family.
It’s is a very sad and heartbreaking situation.
I have been crying every day.
Since last Tuesday she is in the hospital in intensive care unit with pneumonia, and other problems. The doctor told my sister that she might have a few days to live.
Found out about your incredible foundation through a friend.
I really would like to travel to Argentina to say goodbye to my mom and to be with my family but unfortunately we live in Calgary and as you might know this was a terrible year for the economy.
I live here with my husband and two little daughters and we are struggling so much with our finances that it’s difficult to understand that when you work so hard but still, you don’t have enough money.
My daughters haven’t seen their grandparents in 4 years and they are not going to be able to say goodbye to their grandma.
We love Canada but living so far away from home makes me feel so guilty for not being able to be with my family. I know is New Year’s Eve and everybody is looking forward to celebrate but I hope someone can read this message and help me say goodbye to my mom.
Unfortunately the tickets around this time of the year are super expensive and impossible to pay for.
I pray for someone who can help me. Thanks for taking the time on reading this email.â€
Follow-up note and photo from Yanina:
“Hi Give A Mile I don’t have enough words to describe my feelings. You gave me the last opportunity to say goodbye to my mom and to tell her how much I love her. I will be forever thankful to you. I hope to meet you all when I come back.â€