Mary, from Revelstoke, BC, was overjoyed when she found out she was pregnant, but her excitement turned to worry during her 22-week ultrasound. Her doctor informed her that her unborn baby had a malformation, requiring detailed imaging at BC Women’s Hospital in Vancouver and the possibility of surgery after birth. “It was very sad news for my family. We have prayed for this little angel, and God gave it on His perfect time. I still hope for the best that everything will be all right.”
The over six-hour journey to Vancouver was daunting for Mary and her family, who were already facing financial challenges. She was on Employment Insurance (EI) during her pregnancy, and her husband had just returned to work after losing part of his finger in a workplace accident. “I’m literally stressed about it, not to mention the expenses we had to spend for travel, it was a very difficult and stressful time.”
The family made the drive for their first appointment, but the trip was far from easy. “We had difficulty sitting for six hours, and my back hurt so much that we had to stop from time to time. It was snowing, and there were no washrooms on the highway. It was so uncomfortable.”
The stress of repeated trips weighed heavily on the family until a Social Worker at BC Women’s Hospital introduced them to Hope Air. Through Hope Air’s support, Mary was able to fly from Revelstoke to Vancouver, significantly shortening her travel time and easing the strain on her body and her family’s finances.
“I am beyond grateful, and my family is very thankful that we got help from Hope Air, there is hope in every aspect of life, even in difficult situations. Hope Air made our lives easier during a very stressful time.”
Her first flight with Hope Air was scheduled for March 2024 and marked the start of travels for the medical care her baby would need. Hope Air provided not only flights but also accommodations, transportation, and meals, ensuring Mary Jane could focus on her health and her baby’s well-being.
“Honestly, I am very proud that we are here in Canada and got to experience this kind of privilege. Amidst the hardship we are facing, we were given hope and smiles on our faces. A free flight, accommodations, Uber rides, Uber Eats—it is too much. I could not believe it. There were so many blessings, and we felt loved and taken care of.”
On June 6th, 2024 , Mary have birth to a healthy baby and her family remain deeply grateful for the support they received during such a challenging time. “We’re very much thankful for all the help you’ve provided us, we hope there will be more families out there that you can reach and help. Thank you very much Hope Air. When there’s Hope, there’s MIRACLE”