Patient Stories

These touching stories reflect the unwavering dedication of our lifesaving crews and healthcare partners, and the resilience and strength of our patients.

Severe Tractor Fire

Butte

When a tractor fire left Larry with severe burns, Life Flight Network’s swift response ensured he received specialized burn care. After a month of recovery, he returned to ranching, music, and his community—grateful for the neighbors and crews who helped save his life.

Four-Wheeler Accident

Burley

After a four-wheeler accident left Laura Jones with brain bleeds and multiple fractures, Life Flight Network flew her from remote Almo, Idaho, to definitive care. “Life Flight saved my life,” Laura says. Her story highlights the vital role of air medical care in rural communities.

Fall From a Ladder

Coupeville

A fall from a ladder left Sue with a spinal fracture on remote Lopez Island. Life Flight Network flew her to care in just 12 minutes—a transfer that could have taken hours by ferry. “Life Flight was there when it mattered most,” Sue says.

24 Weeks Old Care

Lewiston

Born at just 24 weeks, Avah’s survival depended on two Life Flight Network crews. From Lewiston to Spokane, including the NEST team’s NICU-level care, she was safely delivered to the specialty care she so desperately needed.

Trampolining Accident

Walla Walla

A flip gone wrong left 16-year-old David Sample with a serious spinal cord injury. Life Flight Network crews worked in tandem to get him to lifesaving care—starting a recovery journey fueled by hope and determination.

Cardiac Arrest Before Hunting

Coeur d’Alene

After six minutes of CPR brought Jerry back from cardiac arrest, Life Flight Network’s Coeur d’Alene crew ensured his survival with a rapid flight to Providence Sacred Heart’s Cath Lab. Now fully recovered, Jerry says, “I’m so lucky to still be here.”

Heart Attack While Hiking

Astoria

When 67-year-old James Ryan suffered a severe heart attack while hiking, every second counted. Life Flight Network’s rapid response and expert care ensured he reached advanced cardiac care in time—giving him the chance to survive and return to the active life he loves.

Urgent Air Medical Transport Needed

Kyle Richards was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor at age nine and has faced over a dozen surgeries since. In 2018, Life Flight Network provided urgent air medical transport for a shunt failure, delivering him to specialized care and giving him a second chance at life.

Against the Odds in Cannon Beach

Astoria

When a chainsaw accident left Eric Shoemaker bleeding and stranded deep in the Oregon brush, reaching help seemed impossible. Thanks to swift action from local first responders and Life Flight Network, he was at a trauma center within an hour—a powerful reminder of the difference rapid air medical transport can make.

Collision on a Mountain

Dallesport

After a devastating collision on Mt. Hood left him with life-threatening injuries, photographer Richard Hallman was rescued by Life Flight Network. Now nearly recovered, he reflects on the experience with gratitude—and a renewed respect for the mountains that almost took his life.

Mountain Biking Trip Turned Dangerous

Spokane

A mountain biking trip turned dangerous when Josh Anderson’s leg was impaled by a branch. Thanks to quick action from paramedics, Life Flight Network, and surgeons in Spokane, his leg—and life—were saved.

Trapped and Injured in a Car Crash

Aurora, Oregon

Emelie’s life changed in the blink of an eye, and she credits Life Flight Network with her survival and her newfound self-belief.

These touching stories reflect the unwavering dedication of our lifesaving crews and healthcare partners, and the resilience and strength of our patients.

Emergency Dispatch