Today marks Rare Disease Day, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for equitable access to healthcare and therapies for individuals living with rare diseases.

At Angel Flight NE, we take this day to reflect on the profound impact of our mission on those battling rare diseases. Since our inception in 1996, Angel Flight NE has been a lifeline for patients facing rare and ultra-rare conditions, providing essential medical transportation across the United States.

Rare Disease Day, observed annually on the last day of February, holds special significance for us as we stand in solidarity with patients, families, and advocates worldwide. Over the past months, we’ve witnessed an increase in flight requests for patients diagnosed with various rare diseases, both children and adults. In response, we’ve forged partnerships with over 75 patient organizations specializing in rare diseases.

Our journey is powered by the generosity of the Alexion Charitable Foundation, along with our dedicated team of 450+ volunteer pilots and our commercial airline partners, including JetBlue and Cape Air. Together, we’ve flown patients to specialized medical facilities, offering hope and support in their time of need. We have flown more than 108,000 patients, have flown over 16 million miles to 750+ medical facilities throughout the United States.

As we commemorate Rare Disease Day, we invite you to join us in celebrating resilience and strength. Share stories of hope, advocacy, and awareness to uplift those affected by rare diseases. Follow us on social media and share our Rare Disease posts with your community.

Thank you for your unwavering support of Angel Flight NE and our mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients with rare diseases. Together, we can continue to fly towards a brighter future for all those affected by rare diseases.