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I am a 21-year-old aspiring aviator from New Orleans, living with sickle cell disease since birth. Growing up, I faced frequent hospitalizations and pain crises that often required monthly visits to the hospital. These challenges limited my ability to engage in physical activities, but my condition began improving around age 14 after starting hydroxyurea, a medication that significantly stabilized my health. Since then, I’ve been able to live a more active and independent life, even achieving a four-year streak without hospitalization. However, I didn’t anticipate how my condition would impact my dream of becoming a pilot.
In 2022, I began flight training and completed all the requirements for my private pilot certificate. Unfortunately, I was unable to obtain FAA medical certification due to my condition, creating an unexpected roadblock in my aviation journey. Frustrated, I shared my experience in a Reddit post, which gained attention from others in similar situations. Determined to find a solution, I submitted thorough documentation from my doctors to the FAA and adjusted my medications to address their concerns, but my application was still denied. In late 2023, I sought help from a Louisiana senator, who made an official inquiry to the FAA. Their response, dated November 8, 2023, suggested that curative therapies might be the only path forward. Since early 2024, I have been pursuing these treatments in hopes of meeting FAA requirements.
The connections I made through my Reddit post became pivotal. In 2024, I formed a group chat called “Privileged Pilots” with two individuals, Ty and Kyle, who also have sickle cell disease and aviation aspirations. Kyle’s story was particularly inspiring, as he is living proof that medical certification is possible. Together, we’ve been working to raise awareness about the challenges faced by aspiring aviators with sickle cell.
In August 2024, I attended the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals conference, where I asked what was being done to support individuals like me. This moment reinforced the importance of our mission to advocate for change and inspire others. Privileged Pilots has since grown into more than just a group chat—we’ve been creating products, attending events, and sharing our stories to show that anything is possible with perseverance.
Alongside my passion for flying, I drive Class A vehicles to help cover the cost of my training, all while continuing to pursue a solution to overcome this challenge. My faith in the Lord remains a guiding force throughout this journey.
…proving that despite one’s condition, nothing is IMPOSSIBLE.
Who are Privileged Pilots: Privileged Pilots is more than a brand; it’s a movement dedicated to proving that we are not confined or defined by the conditions we face—whether physical, situational, or societal. It’s about embracing the strength within ourselves, our abilities, and our relentless determination to rise above the challenges before us. Through our journeys, we aim to empower others, showing that perseverance and passion can turn obstacles into opportunities.
The connections I made through my Reddit post became pivotal. In 2024, I formed a group chat called “Privileged Pilots” with two individuals, Ty and Kyle, who also have sickle cell disease and aviation aspirations. Kyle’s story was particularly inspiring, as he is living proof that medical certification is possible. Together, we’ve been working to raise awareness about the challenges faced by aspiring aviators with sickle cell.
In August 2024, I attended the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals conference, where I asked what was being done to support individuals like me. This moment reinforced the importance of our mission to advocate for change and inspire others. Privileged Pilots has since grown into more than just a group chat—we’ve been creating products, attending events, and sharing our stories to show that anything is possible with perseverance.
Alongside my passion for flying, I drive Class A vehicles to help cover the cost of my training, all while continuing to pursue a solution to overcome this challenge. My faith in the Lord remains a guiding force throughout this journey.
…proving that despite one’s condition, nothing is IMPOSSIBLE.
Who are Privileged Pilots: Privileged Pilots is more than a brand; it’s a movement dedicated to proving that we are not confined or defined by the conditions we face—whether physical, situational, or societal. It’s about embracing the strength within ourselves, our abilities, and our relentless determination to rise above the challenges before us. Through our journeys, we aim to empower others, showing that perseverance and passion can turn obstacles into opportunities.
Who are Privileged Pilots: Privileged Pilots is more than a brand; it’s a movement dedicated to proving that we are not confined or defined by the conditions we face—whether physical, situational, or societal. It’s about embracing the strength within ourselves, our abilities, and our relentless determination to rise above the challenges before us. Through our journeys, we aim to empower others, showing that perseverance and passion can turn obstacles into opportunities.
Our Mission: Our mission is to inspire a global community by embodying the belief that nothing is impossible. We’re here to prove that the human spirit, when driven by purpose, knows no limits. Together, we will build a platform that amplifies our collective voice, resonates with those who need hope, and drives meaningful change.
This is more than a challenge—it’s a legacy in the making. Through resilience and unity, Privileged Pilots will ignite a spark that illuminates runways for future generations, proving that barriers can be broken and dreams, no matter how ambitious, can take flight.
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Privileged Pilots is a brand dedicated to raising awareness about Sickle Cell Disease while inspiring others to overcome challenges and reach new heights.
Empowering lives and creating opportunities through awareness and advocacy for Sickle Cell Disease.
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