Angel Flight West: Removing Barriers to Care

Angel Flight West: Removing Barriers to CareWhat happens when the biggest obstacle to healthcare isn't the treatment itself—but simply getting there?In this episode of Between Here and Help, host Nicole Ringgold speaks with Russell Stearns, Director of Outreach for Angel Flight West, and volunteer pilot Clay Ross about the nonprofit organization that has provided more than 100,000 free flights to people across the western United States seeking medical care and other essential services.Together, they explore how volunteer pilots, volunteer drivers known as Earth Angels, and a dedicated operations team help patients overcome one of rural healthcare's greatest challenges: transportation. The conversation also highlights Angel Flight West's support for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, families traveling for specialized pediatric care, hospice patients, and children attending medically supportive camps.Along the way, Russell and Clay share moving stories of passengers whose courage and resilience have stayed with them, offering a powerful reminder that sometimes the greatest act of care is simply helping someone reach the place where healing can begin.Whether you live in the Methow Valley or another rural community, this episode shines a light on an extraordinary network of volunteers proving that compassion can take flight.Between Here and Help is sponsored by Aero Methow. Learn more at www.aeromethow.org