April 21, 2010 – 10:53am – Wednesday (Florida Time)- Titusville, FL – Report submitted by Joe Hurston (Air Mobile Joe)

We departed Ruuska village in the rain. The roads were flooded. At one point, the entire engine of or little motorcycle was nearly submerged (I was concerned about the engine sucking in very dirty, muddy water). Well, we made it through and went straight to the airport. I dropped Garrett to load the aircraft. Then headed straight to the U.S. Embassy to see if little Peter would be given the Medical Visa today. By the way, since the earthquake, medical visas have not been issued. At 9:55AM, Haiti time, Peter’s medical Visa was placed in my hand. He was free to travel to the U.S. to receive surgery to straighten out his legs (Peter’s legs are completely unusable). Calls were made and Peter was quickly prepared and packed and headed to the airport. 

Upon return, we conducted a final aircraft inspection and we awaited Peter. Soon, he arrived. He was overwhelmed by the rapidly moving events. I only had a few minutes to try to explain what was about to happen. We made a smooth take-off. Peter was crying for his mother. I quickly dispatched Garrett to the back seat and told him to be “the big brother”. You see Garrett is the oldest of 6 children. He did a super job. Little Peter managed to go to sleep with Garrett holding him. 

By the time we landed in Exuma for fuel, Garrett had truly begun to win the heart of Peter. We made a very quick turn-around and soon we were headed for Fort Pierce. We had earlier phoned the Officials and explained Peter’s situation. Upon landing, they were fully prepared for us and all went just like clockwork. The officials allowed the care-giving family, Brandon and Abigail to enter in and even allowed us to snap this shot. Ahhhhh…..Mission accomplished!! 

Garrett and I headed back to Titusville, a short 25 minute flight with a beautiful Florida sunset. It’s good to be home!! Today, Post Mission inspection on our trusty mission aircraft. Taking care of a lot of business. Been thinking a lot about that camp very close to Ruuska Village. Have some thoughts I will share either this evening or tomorrow morning. As always….THANKS for your love and prayer!!

Air Mobile Joe