"My Mother Can See Again!"

This past season has been a beautiful testament to God’s faithfulness and provision. Through answered prayers and the dedication of many hands, lives have been touched in profound ways. Not only is this one of 51T first ministry flights in Mexico, but many people can see again!

Over 18 flights were completed safely, transporting patients and their guardians to and from Hospital Misión Tarahumara for life-changing cataract surgeries. With two Cessna 206s and a Carbon Cub FX3 in action, 7.3 hours were flown in the Carbon Cub and 14.5 hours in the UIM Aviation Cessnas. Thanks to the hard work of the maintenance team in Tucson, N4651T was field-ready just in time to serve these flights, performing beautifully throughout.

The results were remarkable: 45 cataract surgeries completed, giving sight to patients whose vision had been lost for years. From one location, 24 patients and guardians were flown in, resulting in nine surgeries. From another location, seven patients and guardians were flown in, with three surgeries completed. On the return flights, the gratitude from patients and families was deeply felt, even from those who typically do not express emotion outwardly.

In a touching moment, two guardians visited Maci Berkeley, founder of Hospital Misión Tarahumara, to express their thanks. Overcome with gratitude, they hugged her — a rare and profound gesture — and said, “My mother can see again.”

We thank the Lord for the surgical team from the U.S. who worked tirelessly, even handling some of the toughest cases. As they continue post-operative care, please pray for healing, no infections, and spiritual transformation in the lives of these patients and their families.

Pastor Jacob sharing the good news with the patients and guardians.

Let us pause and give thanks to God for His provision, for answered prayers, and for the safety of each flight. May His light continue to shine, opening both physical and spiritual eyes to His love and grace.

These elderly men had not seen this view in a while

Written by Brent Dodd, Director of Operations