Mike: Healing With a Smile Mercy Medical Angels

When you think of a smile, what comes to mind? Maybe you think of a teen who just got their braces off. Or maybe you think of a child, “flying” on a swing set. Perhaps you think of relatives or friends seeing each other after a long time apart.

Mike is different from all of these people. One day, his health wasn’t something to smile about. He was diagnosed with a chronic kidney disease.

“Prior to my kidney transplant, I was on dialysis,” said Mike. The dialysis drained his energy. He became weaker, and often suffered from fatigue.

Mike had one chance at regaining his quality of life. He would need a kidney transplant. The best hospital to treat him was Iowa Methodist Medical Center.

However, this hospital was far away from his home. Airfare would have been too expensive. “This would not have been possible due to the cost of air travel,” said Mike.

Mike’s hopes were dashed. It seemed he had no more reasons to smile.

Thankfully for Mike, Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines were able to help. Mercy Medical Angels coordinated trips through American Airlines. This enabled Mike to travel to Iowa for the care he needed.

“Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines were instrumental in getting me listed for kidney and follow-up evaluations,” said Mike. These steps were necessary to receive his kidney transplant. Since the transplant was performed, his quality of life has dramatically increased.

“I have a better quality of life, with no dialysis,” said Mike. “I’m feeling the way I was prior to being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.”

In one word, Mike describes Mercy Medical Angels as a “blessing.” When asked what he would say to potential donors, he speaks from the heart. “You are changing people’s lives,” he says. Then he continues. “You’re giving them a new outlook, a better quality of life, and hope of a better future.”

Mike has to fly back and forth for the next year or so. The transplant requires follow-up appointments. Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines will continue to help him by providing charitable transportation.

Now that Mike is healthier, he’s also happier. When people like Mike need transplants, Mercy Medical Angels and American Airlines help them heal with a smile.