Oziel Guerra is a pilot who volunteers his time and skills with Hope Air, an organization that provides free travel arrangements for people who need to travel long distances for medical care. Guerra heard about Hope Air from a friend and fellow pilot, and decided to get involved to give purpose to his love of flying. He believes that it is not always about the money for people who have to cancel medical appointments due to distance or cost, but also about having the time. Hope Air has seen a significant increase in the number of requests for help in British Columbia, with 14,132 travel arrangements provided in 2023, a 145% increase from the previous year.
Around one in five people living in Northern and rural communities in British Columbia have had to cancel medical appointments due to distance or cost. Guerra acknowledges that Hope Air is very convenient and safe for those who need to travel for medical care. Around 25% of Hope Air clients are children, and the organization recently declared June 17 as Hope Air Day across the province to raise awareness about their work. Guerra emphasizes that the pilots are only a small part of the organization, and that without the coordination of transportation, lodging, eating, and medical services, their work would not be possible.
Hope Air received $10 million from the province to transport cancer patients, as bringing equity in healthcare to more British Columbians is a key component of the agency’s mission. The organization relies on a network of volunteers, including pilots like Guerra, as well as coordinators who handle various aspects of the travel arrangements for their clients. Guerra believes that being able to use his passion for flying to help others is a rewarding experience, and he encourages others to get involved with Hope Air if they have the opportunity.
Overall, Hope Air plays a crucial role in providing free travel arrangements for people who need to access medical care in remote communities. The organization has seen a significant increase in demand for their services in British Columbia. Guerra’s involvement as a volunteer pilot highlights the importance of individuals coming together to support those in need. By raising awareness about their work and receiving support from the community and the province, Hope Air can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those who require medical care but face barriers such as distance and cost.
