Kyle Richards was just nine years old when his life took an unexpected turn. On October 17, 1998, after years of double vision and a sudden loss of sight, an MRI revealed a brain tumor. At Seattle Children’s Hospital, surgeons attempted to remove it, but its location made complete removal impossible. Kyle also had significant hydrocephalus, a dangerous fluid buildup in the brain, requiring a shunt to relieve pressure. The tumor, a ganglioglioma, was fortunately benign, but it marked the beginning of a lifelong medical journey that would lead to 15 brain surgeries.

Nearly two decades later, on June 24, 2018, Kyle faced another life-threatening situation. Just weeks after having his shunt replaced, he began showing alarming signs of shunt failure again. He was admitted to Confluence Health, and his medical team recognized that time was of the essence. They made the urgent decision to call Life Flight Network for rapid air medical transport and have Kyle flown to Harborview Medical Center, where specialized neurosurgical care awaited. “As we watched the helicopter lift off with our son, fear gripped us, but we knew he was in the best hands possible,” said his parents, Ed and Joanne. “It was an incredibly scary and stressful day, but the Life Flight crew’s professionalism, kindness, and reassurance gave us hope. We are forever grateful.”

The care team at Confluence Health emphasized the importance of rapid access to specialized care. “In emergency and trauma situations, time and access to immediate medical care are critical,” said Janna Finley, Trauma Program Manager at Confluence Health. “Having partners in air medical transport, like Life Flight, is a lifesaving necessity.”

Dr. Scott Stroming, the attending ER physician, echoed her sentiments, “We are fortunate to have such a great service in our area.”

Kyle’s surgery at Harborview was successful, and today he continues to manage his health with regular MRIs and seizure-prevention medication. “Life Flight saved my life,” Kyle said. “Their incredible crew was there for me in my most urgent moment. I’ll never forget their care and kindness. I’m forever grateful.”

From the moment he was wheeled into the ER to the moment he landed at Harborview, every decision, every skill, and every hand involved helped ensure Kyle could return home to his family. His story is a powerful reminder of how rapid, expert air medical transport changes outcomes—and saves lives.