LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) --
Dozens of pediatric
patients gathered inside of an airplane hangar in Long Beach Thursday,
and understandably, some of them were nervous.
Ernie Armijo and his
father were two of many taking part in a unique rehabilitation program
organized by Miller Children's Hospital in Long Beach.
On Thursday, several patients and their parents got a chance to fly in a private plane in the skies above Long Beach.
Discovery Flight is a
program designed for children who have suffered serious illness or
injury. The flights are a partnership between the hospital and the
California Flight Center.
Kadin Nicolau suffered a
traumatic brain injury two years ago, and as part of his rehab, he got
the chance to pilot a plane Thursday.
"It was cool, it was like PlayStation or Xbox," Kadin said.
His mother, Kerry Nicolau, went along for the ride.
"Oh, I think it's so
wonderful," Kerry said. "I think it builds so much self esteem and
confidence, and just a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
Matt Gilles was one of several volunteer pilots who donated their time and expertise.
"I'm just kind of speechless on being able to do this that I'm very excited about it," Gilles said.
Organizers of this annual event say that taking to the skies can elicit a very specific reaction from the young patients.
Mariana Sena is in charge of this unique rehabilitation program, that's entering its 13th year.
"By having them on their
plane, it shows them that there is no limits,' Sena said. "It doesn't
matter what disability they have, doesn't matter what their condition is
if they really want to achieve, they can achieve anything they want."
Simply put, organizers
hope that all this altitude will result in a good attitude, as these
young patients continue down their road to recovery.
Story and Video: http://abc7.com
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