High Risks and Low Odds

“Gadiel needs to see six care providers,” said Gadiel’s mother, Heyde. He needs lab work every two weeks, scans every two months, and weekly visits with specialists. Some of the specialists are local, but most are in other cities, such as King of Prussia or Philadelphia. “We drive for two hours, two days a week,” said Heyde. 

Heyde faces challenges of her own. “I’m a full-time caregiver for my son,” said Heyde, “so I’m unable to work.” She receives unemployment. Unfortunately, this barely covers their living expenses – let alone Gadiel’s medical bills. Driving long-distance is another added cost. 

Gadiel’s best option for life-saving care was at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. But driving back and forth to the renowned children’s hospital was far too expensive. The risks to Gadiel’s life were high. The odds of living to celebrate his sixth birthday were low. Heyde was running out of resources, and knew that her son was running out of time. How would Gadiel survive – and possibly even thrive – in the coming years? 



Beating the Clock

Just when it seemed like the clock would run out, Heyde found out about Mercy Medical Angels’ ground transportation program. The charity gave her gas cards so she could drive Gadiel to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. “We travel a lot,” said Heyde, “and this helped us to maintain financial stability.” 

Gadiel was on his way to healing. He was beating the odds that were stacked against him – and beating the clock. 

"We Are Very Grateful!

Gadiel will need more treatment as the years go on. Mercy Medical Angels will continue to help him by sending gas cards. In 2021, Gadiel will celebrate his sixth birthday – and he will live to see many more. His life is no longer driven by despair. Now, hope is the force that will keep Gadiel – and many other children - on the road to a better life.

Heyde puts it best: “Thank you for having such a great program that provides transportation to families, like my son and me.” 



“We are very grateful!”