March 17, 2010 – 8:52am – Wednesday – Titusville, FL – Report submitted by Joe Hurston (Air Mobile Joe)

It’s good to be home. In the shot above, our team (Joe, Lisa and Paul) and “patient” are moments from take-off at Port-Au-Prince International Airport. We met with the attending nurse and Lamont bright and early. Lamont is seated behind me in the photo above. The medical team did all they could to prepare him for his flight home. We still do not know what his illness is, but as the day wore on, Lamont became weaker and weaker. Here is how the day unfolded. As we departed, I spoke with the Air Traffic Controllers regarding the Authorization required to remain in Haiti for more than 1 hour. They assured me that I was welcome to return to Haiti and work as long as needed. We plan to return later this week and the way is now prepared. Thank the Lord! Our flight was very smooth, but very slow! The headwinds were fierce, actually, in all the years of flying to and from Haiti, this flight broke the record for the longest. Our first leg to Exuma went well, but as I said, very slow. We landed in a strong, gusting cross-winds. 

Once on the ground, Deattra, the young lady that was so helpful with the “Orphan Flight” of a couple of weeks ago was right there. This time, we had a true medical resuce mission that required quick and serious help. Our patient was not doing well and was in a lot of pain. We considered putting him into the medical facility in Georgetown, but after discussion, Lamont wanted to proceed on to Fort Pierce. I phoned Fort Pierce Customs and advised them of our situation and explained that we would need an ambulance. They would be waiting for us. The flight from Exuma International to Fort Pierce was even slower. The headwinds were around 60+mph. All we could do was pray that Lamont would hold out. As we approached Fort Pierce, I requested the Control Tower call the ambulance. Moments before touchdown, we saw the ambulance approaching the airport. Praise God for quick service! 

Upon arrival, the Customs Agent in charge was methodical and professional. We actually contacted CDC (Center for Disease Control) and faxed all medical records over. By the way, the Haitian / American medical team in Haiti had documented all treatments for Lamont. This was very helpful, as the discussion of Quarantine was being considered. After careful review, the decision was made to transport Lamont to the local hospital. Our “Mission” was accomplished. We phoned Haiti and advised the staff there and we were all relieved. Lamont was brave and it was a true joy to help get him the care he needed! Now, here is a little bonus. As we departed Fort Pierce, I was advised to contact Vero Tower and request transition through the area. The Tower operator is an old friend who……originally donated N19EZ (our mission aircraft) to Bill Dunklee of Airborne Ministries who donated N19EZ to us at Air Mobile Ministries. Mike was very busy, but I managed to tell him that his old aircraft was deep in the Lord’s service. That was very cool. 

We saw a beautiful Florida Sunset and landed at our home base in Titusville. Our team was glad to be home. By the way, Joe, Lisa and Paul have been serving faithfully in the “Village” for weeks. It has been a true privilege to fly them home after serious and intense work in Haiti following this huge disaster. We have many memories to share and opportunities to serve together in the future. I pray our Lord’s richest blessings upon them for their love and service!! 

As you read this story, remember that you are part of all of this through your love and prayer and support. Thanks again for taking the time to read this little journey and also, please remember to pray for Lamont’s full recovery.

God Bless!!

Air Mobile Joe 

PLEASE CONTINUE READING DOWN TO SEE HOW THIS AND OTHER MISSIONS UNFOLD! THERE IS A LOT OF AMAZING GRACE IN THESE JOURNALS!!