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Impact Report

MAY 1, 2024 - APRIL 30, 2025

ASHER

SOARÉE 2025 CHILD AMBASSADOR

To Our Miracle

With deep gratitude and immense pride, I’m honored to share our 2024–2025 Impact Report, a powerful reflection of what’s possible when compassion drives action and distance is no longer a barrier to hope.

Over the past year, Miracle Flights has continued to soar, guided by our unwavering mission to connect children with the lifechanging medical care they need, regardless of how far that care may be. Thanks to the dedication of our incredible team and the steadfast support of our partners and donors, we’ve expanded our reach, strengthened our operations, and deepened our impact nationwide.

This year, we celebrated a remarkable milestone: 100 million miles flown. To honor this achievement, we gathered with community leaders and changemakers—among them U.S. Representative Dina Titus—at Harry Reid International Airport, alongside the Clark County Department of Aviation and our longtime partner, Southwest Airlines.

Christopher Khorsandi, MD , Jessica Connell, and Joel Jarvis Miracle Flights Board of Directors at SOARÉE 2025
The Miracle Flights Team

Extraordinary partnerships power our progress. We are especially grateful to Southwest Airlines, Blacklane,
WHSmith North America, Paradies Lagardère, AMGEN, SkyHop Global, and Thrive Aviation. Their generosity and
belief in our mission have turned logistical hurdles into lifelines for thousands of families.

Among the most meaningful moments of the year were our signature events—Lights for Flights, Wine Flights, and SOARée. These gatherings brought us together with the families we serve. Hearing their stories shaped by challenge but defined by resilience was a powerful reminder of the human spirit that inspires all we do. As we reflect on the milestones of the past year, I’m reminded that none of this would be possible without you, our extraordinary community of supporters, partners, and advocates. Your belief in our mission lifts us higher and carries us forward. As we celebrate 40 years of Hope and Miracles, we look to the future with renewed determination to reach farther, serve more families, and ensure that no child is ever denied care because of geography.

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Impact

By the Numbers
167,734
Flights Flown Since 1985
700
Avg. Flights Per Month
102,809,227
Miles Flown Since 1985
MIRACLE
FLIERS
BY AGE
Number of Miracle Flights Departing From Each State

0-99 Flights

100-199 Flights

200+ Flights

0-4 yrs

5-12 yrs

13-17 yrs

Top 10 Treatment Sites

  • Boston Children’s Hospital
    Boston, MA
  • Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
    Philadelphia, PA
  • City of Hope
    Los Angeles, CA
  • Food Allergy Institute
    Long Beach, CA
  • Mayo Clinic
    Rochester, MN
  • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center New York, NY
  • Nationwide Children’s Hospital
    Columbus, OH
  • Nemours Children’s Hospital
    Wilmington, DE
  • Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute
    West Palm Beach, FL
  • University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
    Houston, TX

Top 10 Flight Requests

  • Food Allergies
  • Clubfoot
  • Retinoblastoma
  • Arthrogryposis / AMC
    (joint condition)
  • Heart Defects
  • Epilepsy
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Lung Disease
  • Hirschsprung’s Disease (colon condition)
  • Scoliosis

Referral Sources

  • Scoliosis
  • Another Miracle Flights Family
  • Internet Search
  • Local Physician
  • Social Media
  • Social Worker
  • Treatment Site Physician
Left to Right: Kathy Roller (Vice President of Events, Miracle Flights), Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley, and Robert Sanchez (Vice President of Operations, Miracle Flights).
"This is an organization that has a national, if not international, footprint, but they’re based in Las Vegas. This is the first [national] 501(c)(3) that actually is home based in Las Vegas. It’s ours and we’re so proud that they’re one of our own."
Shelley Berkley

Las Vegas Mayor

Board of Directors

Christopher Khorsandi, MD
is Chairman of the Board of Directors. A member of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons with practices in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, Dr. Khorsandi received his medical education at Villanova University and Temple University School of Medicine. He then received training at the University of Pennsylvania General Surgery program, with the opportunity to work at the country’s first hospital, Pennsylvania Hospital. He also received training at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, followed by acceptance into Cleveland Clinic’s Plastic and Reconstructive Training Program. His expertise expands from plastic surgery to minimally invasive hand surgery and the emerging new field of migraine relief surgery. Dr. Khorsandi is a three-time recipient of the national Patient’s Choice Award for his skills and a two-time recipient of the national Compassionate Doctor Award.
Jessica Connell
is Chairman of the Board of Directors. A member of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons with practices in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, Dr. Khorsandi received his medical education at Villanova University and Temple University School of Medicine. He then received training at the University of Pennsylvania General Surgery program, with the opportunity to work at the country’s first hospital, Pennsylvania Hospital. He also received training at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, followed by acceptance into Cleveland Clinic’s Plastic and Reconstructive Training Program. His expertise expands from plastic surgery to minimally invasive hand surgery and the emerging new field of migraine relief surgery. Dr. Khorsandi is a three-time recipient of the national Patient’s Choice Award for his skills and a two-time recipient of the national Compassionate Doctor Award.
Joel G. Jarvis
is Chairman of the Board of Directors. A member of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons with practices in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, Dr. Khorsandi received his medical education at Villanova University and Temple University School of Medicine. He then received training at the University of Pennsylvania General Surgery program, with the opportunity to work at the country’s first hospital, Pennsylvania Hospital. He also received training at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, followed by acceptance into Cleveland Clinic’s Plastic and Reconstructive Training Program. His expertise expands from plastic surgery to minimally invasive hand surgery and the emerging new field of migraine relief surgery. Dr. Khorsandi is a three-time recipient of the national Patient’s Choice Award for his skills and a two-time recipient of the national Compassionate Doctor Award.

Miracle Flights Team

Rebecca Boyce photo

Rebecca Boyce

Director of Flight Operations

Rebecca Boyce has served as the Director of Flight Operations since 2006, overseeing all functions of the flight department. She is responsible for various aspects of the flight department, including personal contact with families, researching and booking flights, changing flights to accommodate family and physician needs, maintaining the flight database, and implementing existing and new programs. Additionally, she works directly with the airlines that support Miracle Flights through donated tickets.
Jessica Cardenas photo

Jessica Cardenas

Flight Specialist

Jessica Cardenas is a flight specialist who assists in all areas of flight operations. Her responsibilities include reviewing flight request applications, conducting outreach with families, researching and booking flights, and compiling and standardizing children’s stories, among other tasks. Born in California, she considers herself a Nevadan after moving to the area at the age of four. Jessica’s bubbly and optimistic personality brightens the office and shines through when she watches her two daughters play soccer (a sport she also played in high school). A foodie at heart, one of her favorite pastimes is cooking fried bread topped with powdered sugar, which she enjoys sharing with her family. When she’s not busy with work, she can often be found on spontaneous road trips, relaxing at the beach, or hunting for the perfect cup of coffee.
Anita Carpenter photo

Anita Carpenter

Resource Development Manager

Since 2020, Anita Carpenter has been Miracle Flights' Resource Development Manager. She conducts research and writes grants, collaborating with corporate partners, private foundations, and state and federal agencies to support the organization's mission. Carpenter brings over 30 years of experience to the organization. During her grant tenure, Carpenter worked across nonprofit, tribal, state, and federal sectors. Congress appointed her to three Department of Defense Task Forces and has served on several committees at both the state and federal levels to inform policy changes. Carpenter is a national trainer for the Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance Center, specializing in federal grant management. She considers her most significant achievement to be her children, whom she shares with her husband of 34 years.
Cassandra Castanino photo

Cassandra Castanino

Events Coordinator

Cassandra Castanino is the Events Coordinator at Miracle Flights, where she collaborates with community supporters to raise awareness and build lasting relationships that help further the mission of Miracle Flights. She holds an Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts. With over 20 years of experience in event coordination and planning, she comes from a culinary-focused background. She enjoys traveling with her husband and taking her two huskies on long walks in her free time.

Fox Deatry

Vice President of Marketing and Communications

Fox Deatry is the Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Miracle Flights and a global communications executive with deep expertise in strategic communications, international news gathering, public affairs, advocacy, creative design, digital publishing, media relations, and brand sustainability.

Throughout his career, Fox has held executive and director roles at renowned organizations, including Al Jazeera Media Network, Livestrong.com, the Movember Foundation, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, Outright International, and The Children's Inn at the National Institutes of Health. As part of the leadership team that launched Al Jazeera America and AJ+, he played a key role in shaping the network’s presence. He also spearheaded Al Jazeera’s award-winning #JournalismIsNotACrime global campaign, advocating for press freedom and journalist protection.

Fox serves as an advisor and board member for the Society of LGBT Entertainment Critics, representing television, film, and entertainment journalists. He holds a graduate degree from The George Washington University’s School of Political Management. His career began in entertainment and public education, where he revitalized the cinema and broadcast television program at West Los Angeles College.

Dona Krystosek

Family Advocate

Dona Krystosek is the Family Advocate at Miracle Flights, joining the organization in November 2016. She served six years of active duty in the United States Air Force and completed her nursing degree after an honorable discharge. Her nursing career involved providing specialized care to newborns in the nursery until the birth of her son. Dona knows the hope she felt when she discovered Miracle Flights during a 2 am internet search, desperately seeking a way to get her son the out-of-state medical care he needed. The joy she experienced upon finding Miracle Flights still brings tears to her eyes. She joins the team with eagerness and excitement to assist other families in navigating similar challenges. While Dona is a registered nurse by profession, she is also a writer and researcher. Over the past ten years, as a mother to a special needs child, she has gained extensive knowledge and experience. She is passionate about helping other children access the out-of-state medical care they need to live longer, healthier lives. In her free time, Dona enjoys traveling, fishing, boating, and spending time with her family. She resides in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
Vanessa Moreno photo

Vanessa Moreno

Director of Operations

Vanessa Moreno is the Director of Operations at Miracle Flights, where she oversees the organization’s internal operations, including flight operations, outreach, and development. She joined Miracle Flights in 2006 and has been instrumental in its transition and growth. Always seeking professional advancement, she has earned certifications in nonprofit management and human resources from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and engaging with pop culture (just ask her about any of the Real Housewives).
Nicole Padberg photo

Nicole Padberg Munkdale

Multimedia Producer

Nicole Padberg Munkdale brings two decades of experience in graphic design and art direction to Miracle Flights. Her career spans the hospitality, entertainment, and gaming industries, where she has created compelling content for both print and digital media, enhancing brand visibility and impact. At Miracle Flights, Nicole utilizes her graphic artist, illustrator, photographer, videographer, and video producer skills, fulfilling a versatile role in media design. An award-winning designer, Nicole holds a degree in graphic design from Platt College (Newport Beach, CA) and a degree in radio and TV communications from Saddleback College (Mission Viejo, CA). Outside of work, Nicole enjoys the beauty of nature. She loves hiking Mt. Charleston, skiing at Lee Canyon, exploring the great outdoors of Nevada, and occasionally ice skating.
John Rinaldo photo

Dr. John Rinaldo

Vice President of Development

Dr. John Rinaldo, the Vice President of Development at Miracle Flights, brings over 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience. Before this role, he served as the Director of Business Partnerships at Cristo Rey St. Viator College Preparatory High School in North Las Vegas. A proud member of the Class of 2024 Leadership Las Vegas program through the Vegas Chamber of Commerce, John represents the “White Tigers.”
Throughout his esteemed career, John has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership across various areas, including program management, event planning, community partnerships, fundraising, and executive leadership. His unwavering dedication to building impactful relationships and driving significant change has been a hallmark of his work.
John holds a doctorate in organizational and leadership development, further affirming his expertise in the field. He is happily married and a devoted father of three.
Kathy Roller photo

Kathy Roller

Vice President of Events

Kathy has been a dedicated advocate in the nonprofit sector for over a decade, using her expertise and passion to uplift families in need. For over seven years, she has played a vital role at Miracle Flights, a national charity that provides free flights to critically ill children who need access to life-changing medical care. Her work has impacted countless families, offering them hope and essential support during their most challenging times.
Her connection to Miracle Flights is profoundly personal. Kathy’s youngest son, Isaac, had special medical needs, and through his journey, she gained firsthand insight into the struggles families face when seeking care. This experience fuels her unwavering commitment to helping other parents navigate similar challenges, ensuring that no family has to worry about how they’ll reach the medical care their child urgently requires.
Holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a specialization in Finance, focused on Investing and Banking, Kathy has leveraged her strategic mindset to transform nonprofit fundraising and community engagement. She graduated from Leadership Las Vegas Advance in 2019 and earned a Certificate in Healthcare Leadership from Duke University in 2021. She is furthering her leadership development by participating in the Henderson Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, which deepens her understanding of how to make a lasting impact in Southern Nevada.
Kathy is a true innovator, having expanded Miracle Flights’ events department from a single annual fundraiser to over 40 events yearly. Her notable initiatives include SOARée, a premier hangar event that raised over $260,000 in its inaugural year; Smiles with Miles, a virtual kids’ club that brings joy to children nationwide through a partnership with Ryan Seacrest Studios; and Carnival in the Clouds, which attracted more than 7,000 attendees in its first year. These events raise critical funds and unite communities to celebrate and support Miracle Flights’ mission.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kathy has served on the United Cerebral Palsy of Northern Nevada board and actively contributes to her church, exemplifying a deep commitment to service. Her personal and professional journey has shaped her into a compassionate leader, an advocate for families, and a driving force in the nonprofit sector.
Kathy’s life work is grounded in helping others, fostering connections, and bringing hope to families in need. She continues to make a lasting difference in the community through innovation, dedication, and a heart for service.
Terra Sadler photo

Terra Sadler

Administrative Assistant

Terra Sadler is the Administrative Assistant at Miracle Flights, where she supports all departments and handles ground transportation bookings for the organization’s families. She joined the Miracle Flights team in 2017 and has found joy in helping families obtain the necessary care they need. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Terra enjoys traveling, listening to music, and spending time with her dogs.
Robert Sanchez photo

Robert Sanchez

Vice President of Operations

Robert Sanchez is the Vice President of Operations at Miracle Flights, where he oversees the development and flight department teams. Over the past 12 years, he has gained invaluable leadership experience across corporate, startup, and nonprofit sectors. Before joining Miracle Flights, he was the Senior Campaign Manager for Light the Night at The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Virginia in 2006. A native of Las Vegas, he enjoys walking his dog and spending quality time with his family when he is not working.

Lights for

Miracle Flights proudly presents its 4th annual Lights for Flights installation at Downtown Summerlin. Seven oversized illuminated words, “Love, Joy, Hope, Peace, Soar, Miracle, and I Love You,” were placed around Downtown Summerlin shops during the holidays.
These words embody Miracle Flights’ mission and values and allow our supporters and donors to give back to one of Las Vegas’ favorite nonprofits.
Lights for Flights
November 23, 2024 • Downtown Summerlin
For the first time during Lights for Flights, Miracle Flights introduced its new Wine Flights event at Downtown Summerlin, during the 2024 holiday season. Guests strolled amongst the shops, visiting Miracle Flights’ lighted installation signs, where various wine stations were placed to taste delicious viticultural offerings.
Wine Flights
Amount Raised

$35,000

Robert Sanchez, Miracle Flights’ VP of Operations, accepts recognition of Miracle Flights’ 100-million-mile achievement being entered into the Congressional Record by U.S. House Representative Dina Titus.
"Thank you so much for letting me be part of this exciting celebration— ONE HUNDRED MILLION MILES! And how exciting it is to be celebrating with Luna, who is about to make one of her trips to Salt Lake City. She is a great ambassador for the flight, so thank you, Luna, for letting us share this moment with you. It is so important, and so noteworthy, that we put a statement in the Congressional Record commending Miracle Flights, mentioning Luna, and saying thank you for the incredible service you have provided to this community and to so many lives. Thank you, Miracle Flights, and thank you for letting me be here to help you celebrate."
U.S. Representative Dina Titus

(NV-1)

On October 24, 2024, with the help of our community partners—Southwest Airlines and Harry Reid International Airport—along with U.S. House Representative Dina Titus (NV-1) and Clark County Nevada Commissioner Jim Gibson, we celebrated a milestone event: reaching 100-million-mile in flights. Our 100-million-mile Miracle Flyer, Luna, and her mother were also on hand to help us celebrate as they boarded the milestone flight.
Amount Raised

$501,295

Attendees 400
Host Sponsor Thrive Aviation
Presenting Sponsor Skyhop Global
Amount Raised

$501,295

Attendees 400
Host Sponsor Thrive Aviation
Presenting Sponsor Skyhop Global
March 28, 2025 • Thrive Aviation
Miracle Flights hosted its third annual, one-of-a-kind fundraising event, SOARée. Hosted by Thrive Aviation at their luxurious private aviation hangar located just off the Las Vegas Strip. Guests enjoyed custom cocktails, tantalizing small bites, and exciting entertainment.
Attendees bring their suitcases! Unlike other events where you leave the venue at the end of the evening, at SOARée, three lucky couples departed via private jet for a luxury weekend in Healdsburg, California (Sonoma County), with exclusive accommodations, car service, and more.
SOARée 2025
"Over the last 40 years, there have been over 160,000 flights. Flights that have changed childrens’ lives, families’ lives, and it all began with a vision in Las Vegas. I hope Miracle Flights continues to be flying 40 years from now. And if we have donations and support from the community, maybe we can expand those flights, and help every child that needs access to medical care anywhere in this country."
Jan Jones Blackhurst

2025 SOARÉE Navigator Honoree

Small Plane, Big Impact

and Miracle Flights partner with “Skyler”
Introducing Skyler, an airplane plush that will retail in certain Paradies Lagardère-operated airport stores. Proceeds from sales
of Skyler fund Miracle Flights’ mission to help children and their families access distant medical care not found in their local communities.

Gregg Paradies, Paradies Lagardère President and CEO and Dr. John Rinaldo, Vice President of Development Miracle Flights, introduce Skyler at The Airport Experience Conference in Washington, D.C.

National Flight Partners

Regional Flight Partners

$20,000 and UP
  • Disturbing Tha Peace Touring
  • John R. McCune Charitable Trust
  • Vertex Pharmaceuticals
  • KFKJ Family Charitable Fund
$10,000 - $19,999
  • Clark County OAG
  • Clough Family Foundation
  • Fred Maytag Family Foundation
  • Geaton and JoAnn DeCesaris Family Foundation
  • Greehey Family Foundation
  • Hagar Family Foundation
  • Lon V. Smith Foundation
  • Miles Hodsdon Vernon Foundation
  • Robert Dejong
  • Stephen and Mary Birch Foundation
  • Tang Foundation
  • The Najim Charitable Foundation
  • Whiting Foundation
$5,000 - $9,999
  • Boyd Gaming Corporation
  • Brumley Foundation
  • Chuck Brennan
  • David Jackson
  • Dwane & Velma Wallace Charitable Foundation
  • Emily Landecker Foundation
  • ESG Luxury
  • FAT Brands Foundation
  • Findlay Volkswagen Henderson
  • Frank and Victoria Fertitta Foundation
  • Helen L. Kay Charitable Trust
  • James W. Pickle Charitable Foundation
  • Katherine A Oder
  • Lehner Family Trust
  • Makers & Finders
  • Marshall R. Matley Foundation
  • Medallion Foundation
  • Messner Foundation
  • Multipure
  • Red Desert Doodles
  • San Diego Foundation
  • Sky Diamonds
  • Social and Environmental Entrepreneurs
  • Speedway Children’s Charities
  • Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging
  • The Gitlin Foundation
  • The Medallion Foundation
  • The Richard & Nicole Marshall Family Foundation
  • Wawona Foundation
$2,500 - $4,999
  • Anonymous Foundation
  • Ben Beckley
  • Brian Kleven
  • Caesars Enterprise Services, LLC
  • Christopher Khorsandi M.D.
  • Connell Outdoor Advertising
  • Cowles Charitable Trust
  • Dermody Properties Foundation
  • Dignity Health
  • Enterprise Mobility – Las Vegas
  • Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix
  • Genu Bank
  • Good Neighbor Fund – Spirit AeroSystems Employees
  • Gordon Hartman Family Foundation
  • Jeanette Marie Forrey
  • Jeremy A. Aguero
  • Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
  • Las Vegas Toilet Rentals
  • Pilar Evans
  • Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa
  • Rick Van Diepen
  • The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation
  • The Las Vegas Aviators
  • Vin Sauvage
  • William Brennan
  • Northern Trust
$1,000 - $2,499
  • Amicus Therapeutics
  • APW brands
  • Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund
  • Black Desert Resort
  • Bob Thompson
  • Breakthru Beverage
  • Brett Frankel
  • Carroll B. Burger
  • Drai’s
  • Elizabeth Read Taylor Foundation
  • Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas
  • Fox Foundation
  • Gaudin Porsche
  • Green Valley Ranch
  • H&H Development
  • Irene C. Finkelstein Foundation
  • Joseph W. Stanley Charitable Trust
  • Las Vegas Toilet Rentals
  • Julie Skiba
  • Kenworth Sales Company, Truck Enterprises
  • Las Vegas Motor Speedway
  • Las Vegas Northwest Rotary Foundation
  • Leo H. Bendit Charitable Foundation
  • Lonnie Stephens Trust
  • Marce Roth
  • Marsha Marshall
  • Mary Jo Manion
  • Matthew Collins
  • Melanie Moffat
  • Michael Feder
  • Miracle Mile Shops
  • North Las Vegas Fire Department
  • Resortcom International, LLC
  • Resorts World Hotel & Casino
  • Rio Las Vegas
  • Samuel M Chen M.D.
  • The Silverton Hotel and Casino
  • The Sphere
  • The Wawa Foundation
  • Vegas Girls Night Out
  • WRB Public Relations
  • Yip Fitness

Keona

Keona’s story began with heartbreak. At just four weeks old, she was diagnosed with shaken baby syndrome, spending a month in a coma with two broken legs. But her story didn’t end there—she was given a second chance when she was adopted by a loving family in Louisiana.

Because of time spent on life support, Keona needed a trach to breathe, leaving scarring near her voice box. But in 2015, hope arrived in the form of Dr. Sohit Kanotra. At 18 months old, Keona underwent a complex surgery to rebuild her airway—and for the first time, she spoke. When Dr. Kanotra relocated across the country, Keona’s family knew they had to stay by his side. Thanks to Miracle Flights, they could.

“We could not do this without Miracle Flights, and making sure our daughter gets the very best care is very important to us.” – Tammy M., Keona’s Mom

Now 9, Keona is thriving. She’s bubbly, loves gymnastics, and dreams of becoming a doctor one day. Her latest Miracle Flight took her to UCLA for a bronchoscopy with Dr. Kanotra—ensuring she stays on the path to healing. With every flight, Miracle Flights helps her do more than travel. It helps her soar.

National Flight Partners

In 2025, Miracle Flights and WHSmith North America introduced a new plush bear, “Hope.” In celebration of Hope’s release, Mayor Shelley Berkley and the city of Las Vegas declared February 11, 2025 “Hope Day.” Hope, along with Miles retails in WHSmith North America locations in 58 of their airport locations. All proceeds from the sales of Hope and Miles are donated to Miracle Flights.
Amount Raised

$146,940

14,694 Bears Sold
58 Stores Across the U.S.

National Flight Partners

563 Rides

May 1, 2024 - April 30, 2025
In June 2024, we celebrated our five-year anniversary with our ground transportation partner, Blacklane. Since 2019, Blacklane has provided nearly 2,300 free chauffeured rides to sick children and their families traveling for life-changing medical care far from home. Blacklane—the leading global chauffeur service—provides safe, sustainable, and stress-free travel to our traveling families.

Malik

Helpful, happy, 10-year-old Malik of Cohoes, New York started his Miracle Flights journey this year. He stepped up to show his gratitude after returning from his first Miracle Flights trip in a big way. He was a 2025 child artist that participated in the art auction at SOARée to help Miracle Flights.

He has Hirschsprung’s Disease, which requires him to travel to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio for specialized treatment. When asked what he’d like to name his artwork he quickly replied, “Malik, the Great!” His mother describes him as quite the character. We agree that Malik is GREAT! Although his journey is still ongoing, his mother knows that Miracle Flights will be with them every flight of the way!

Asher

Asher was 18-months-old when he received his first Miracle Flight to treat his Grade 4 Subglottic Stenosis, which caused a complete closure of the airway requiring him to be tracheostomy dependent. He traveled to Mass Eye and Ear in Boston, Massachusetts.

“We just returned home to Vegas from Boston Mass Eye & Ear, a Harvard teaching hospital dedicated to eye, ear, nose, throat, head, and neck care,” Becky, Asher’s mother, noted. “Our son had a bronchoscopy with an ENT that specializes in airway reconstruction. The whole experience from start to finish went perfectly. It was our first time flying with our medically complex baby, and we could not have asked for a better outcome. We received the news we had been hoping for: Asher is a great candidate for airway reconstruction surgery. This will provide him with a safe airway and a voice. We have never heard Asher’s voice, not a single coo or babble; even when he cries, it is completely silent. We are so grateful for this opportunity to provide him with a better quality of life and to get him to a point where his condition is no longer life-threatening. This would not have been possible without the assistance of Miracle Flights. Words could never fully express our gratitude.”

Asher had his airway reconstruction surgery on September 4th at Mass General in Boston, Massachusetts. The surgery went well, with no complications. The surgeon successfully removed rib cartilage and placed the rib graft in his airway, which took about four hours. His airway is now open. Since the surgery, Asher has tried new foods. On September 23rd, his mother shared a video titled “Look who has a voice!”

Community Events & Volunteers

152 people

Total Number of Volunteers

5,016 hours

Total Volunteer Hours

In 2024, Miracle Flights engaged with the local Las Vegas community at various events, such as PBS’ Be My Neighbor Day, the Vegas Golden Knights’ Fan Fest, and National Night Out. For National Teddy Bear Day, the Miracle Flights team—along with Miles—spread smiles to patients at Sunrise Children’s Hospital.
The mission of Miracle Flights was further strengthened by the dedicated volunteer efforts of our valued partners—Southwest Airlines, NV Energy, MDL Group, Kendra Scott, and the Silverliners—as well as standout individual volunteers, including Sherry Catchpole, Cathy Barbagallo, and Darius Tran Solis and Paul Rogers of Southwest.

Ways to Give

Give the Gift of Hope with Your Personal Gift

Your gift today can provide free commercial flights and essential travel assistance, helping children and their families reach the medical specialists they desperately need. Whether you make a onetime donation or commit to a recurring monthly gift, you are giving the gift of hope, healing, and togetherness.

Corporate Partnerships

With the generous support of our corporate partners, we continue to make a profound difference in the lives of children and their families. These partnerships are essential to sustaining our vital work, and your company can be part of this extraordinary mission. By partnering with us, your brand can align with a meaningful cause, provide employees with valuable volunteer and networking opportunities at our events, and gain visibility through customized sponsorships that reflect our shared values.

Planned Giving

Planned giving is a powerful way to ensure the long-term success of Miracle Flights’ mission. Consider including Miracle Flights in your estate plans.

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