Today, I decided to delay my flight, and from now on, I will always choose American Airlines. Here’s why: while I was on the phone getting ready to go find my gate, I saw a man, named Will K., lying on the floor looking very unwell and in distress. It was clear something was wrong, but I wasn’t sure what.
I asked him a few questions and decided to call for medical help. Will kept telling me he was worried he’d miss his flight while waiting for help, so I realized he might be autistic.
This made me rethink things. After reassuring him about his flight, I called his mom to let her know he wasn’t feeling well and was being looked at by the medical team at the Dallas Airport.
After talking with the medical team, his mom (who confirmed he was autistic), and American Airlines, the doctors said he needed to eat and drink something because they were worried he might get sick again and wasn’t sure if he should fly.
I worked with American Airlines and the medical team to help. I told them I’d change my flight, have lunch with him, and make sure he got on his flight. American Airlines didn’t charge me for changing my flight and even called me while we were having lunch to let me know his gate had changed.
When I took Will to his gate, the American Airlines staff took great care of him, checked on him, and made sure he boarded safely to see his mom for Christmas. Today turned out so much better than I expected.
I had a lovely lunch with this amazing young man from Louisville, Kentucky. While I don’t know him well, I can tell he has a heart of gold, and his mom and sister love him very much. After texting with his mom, I could see how much she cares for him. American Airlines handled the situation with great care and professionalism.
The medical team at Dallas and the police were just as amazing. Sometimes, we all need a little help, no matter who we are. Thanks for making my day, Will!
Credit: Shaina Murry
Source: Let’s Spread the Kindness