Local Nonprofit Provides Flights of Hope for 8-Year-Old Cancer Patient

Eight-year-old Ashlyn Perkins, a brave fighter against neuroblastoma, has received a significant boost in her battle against cancer thanks to the Raleigh-based nonprofit, Children’s Flight of Hope (CFOH). This organization is dedicated to providing free air travel for pediatric patients and their families, ensuring that distance and financial burdens do not hinder access to specialized medical care.

Key Takeaways

Ashlyn Perkins, diagnosed with neuroblastoma, has been supported by CFOH for her medical travel needs.
CFOH aims to alleviate the financial strain on families seeking specialized treatment.
The nonprofit has provided over 24,000 flights to children and their guardians since its inception.

Ashlyn’s Journey

Ashlyn’s journey began with a troubling sign: difficulty sleeping. After a visit to the doctor, an ultrasound revealed a mass on her kidney, leading to a cancer diagnosis. Initially misdiagnosed with Wilms Tumor, Ashlyn underwent six ineffective rounds of chemotherapy before the correct diagnosis of neuroblastoma was made.

Her mother, Julie Perkins, shared the emotional toll this journey has taken on their family. With her husband unemployed due to the pandemic and Julie having to quit her job to care for Ashlyn, the family faced significant financial challenges.

The Role of Children’s Flight of Hope

In their time of need, the Perkins family learned about CFOH, which provides free flights for pediatric patients and one accompanying parent or guardian. Julie described the application process as seamless, stating, "I applied and it was so seamless. I think I got the call that same afternoon that they approved us."

CFOH President and CEO Pat Nelli emphasized the organization’s mission: "We believe distance and the cost of travel should never be barriers to get to the specialized medical care they so desperately need."

Impact on Families

CFOH has grown from a group of private pilots to a nonprofit that collaborates with commercial airlines, offering flights across all 50 states. The organization not only provides transportation but also care packages for patients, addressing the unique needs of those battling neuroblastoma.

Julie expressed her gratitude for the support they received, stating, "As of last count, they have provided over 120 flights for Ashlyn and I. That was such a blessing. There was no way we could’ve afforded it."

Looking Ahead

As Ashlyn prepares for her final round of treatment in May 2025, the support from CFOH continues to be a lifeline. Julie reflected on the importance of this assistance, saying, "Had we not transferred our care, I don’t think she would be here."

CFOH aims to provide over 2,700 flights in 2024, with a goal of reaching 4,000 flights by 2026. Nelli noted, "We see an exciting path ahead of growth because we know the need is great and we want to meet it."

Conclusion

The story of Ashlyn Perkins and her family highlights the critical role that organizations like Children’s Flight of Hope play in the lives of families facing pediatric cancer. By alleviating the financial burden of travel, CFOH allows families to focus on what truly matters: the health and well-being of their children.