In September of 2021, Barbara and Tony Olm were on trip through the Southwest US with their Airstream Club. “While in Utah, our truck broke down and was towed an hour away to the nearest diesel mechanic,” says Barbara. “It was determined we needed a new motor which would require several weeks. We decided to go back to Colorado Springs to our daughter’s home while waiting. While there, we all came down with Covid. My case turned serious, and I was taken by ambulance to the hospital where it was determined I had Covid pneumonia and low oxygen levels. I was admitted and struggled through 16 days of hospitalization with no visitors. I came very close to being intubated and dying, but thanks to the many prayers of family, friends, and strangers, I began to recover. I was released to a rehab facility but there were not beds available. I was sent home to my daughter’s home on oxygen 24/7 and a walker. I needed to get home but I needed a portable oxygen concentrator for the trip and there were none available in Colorado or Alabama where our home is.”
“After all this frustration and tears, and feeling utterly helpless, we remembered we had SkyMed! We had signed up at a rally the previous year thinking we would never use it and had hoped we never would. Tony called SkyMed, and they got the ball rolling. After a few obstacles getting my Fit to Fly form signed (the discharging doctor had gone on vacation!), all the pieces fell into place.
SkyMed arranged my trip home by plane that included a wonderful travel nurse who had the personal oxygen concentrator I needed so desperately to get home! Transportation was provided by SkyMed, both to and from each airport. In the meantime, Tony drove our truck and Airstream the four days home, all expenses paid. What started out to be an overwhelming dilemma turned out wonderful thanks to SkyMed.”
How did you find out about SkyMed and why did you choose SkyMed? “We found out about Skymed when we attended a presentation at one of our Airstream rallies.”
What would you tell your friends about your experience with SkyMed? “First, sign up with SkyMed! It is worth the peace of mind you will have if you find yourself in an emergency and need their services.”
Do you have any tips to share on ‘how to’ survive a life challenge? “In any emergency, call SkyMed immediately. Keep your SkyMed card in your wallet so it will be available when you need it. Also, make sure your loved one knows where to find passwords and how to pay the bills.”
Barbara and Joseph Olm, SkyMed Champions
