Achalasia Patient Finds Care, Thanks to Charitable Flights
Struggles with Achalasia
Lisa struggles with a rare disease known as achalasia. Only 1 out of 100,000 people in the United States has it. Achalasia is where the nerves leading to the esophagus are damaged. This causes the muscles in the esophagus to constantly tense up, making it almost impossible for food to get into the stomach.
The food causes a backup in the bottom of the esophagus. A backup can lead to a host of problems, ranging from severe heartburn to pneumonia, and more. Worse, the nerve damage associated with achalasia is irreversible.
Treatment Options
When Lisa found out about her diagnosis, she didn't know what to do. She already suffered from multiple physical and mental conditions, and achalasia was the last thing she needed. "It's so rare," said Lisa, "that no one around here is qualified to treat it." She threw herself into research, trying to find someone who was qualified to treat it.
Finally, Lisa found a team of achalasia specialists at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. They offered a number of treatment options. After the specialists helped her, she would get her life back without suffering from a rare disease. Relief was on the horizon.
From Clouds...
But that sense of relief didn't last. Lisa lives in Burlington, Vermont. Mayo Clinic is 950 miles away from her home. She couldn't afford round-trip airfare. Driving would take even longer. Worse, she needed multiple appointments over a long span of time.
"I have no extra money," said Lisa, "and I had no idea how I would make it." Clouds of despair blocked Lisa's once-clear view of a healthier future. How would she get to Mayo Clinic and receive the life-changing care she needed?
...To Clear Skies
That was when Lisa found out about Mercy Medical Angels. She applied for assistance and heard back promptly. "They approved my application," said Lisa, "and booked charitable flights for me on American Airlines."
The charitable flights were arranged and paid for. Lisa didn't have to scramble for money or take time out to plan a medically necessary trip. She could place all her focus on getting better. "The team is amazing," said Lisa. "They really helped me a lot with this gift."
"You've Really Made Things So Much Easier..."
Lisa is now back home. She'll need more trips to Mayo Clinic in the future. But unlike before, she doesn't have as much stress. She trusts that Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines will continue to help her - until her health is restored.
"You've really made things so much easier," said Lisa. "I have one less thing to worry about, since Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines are helping me with the flights. Thank you so, so much!"
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