Skip to main content

Cross for LifeFlight

Cross Maine. Save Lives.
Fundraiser

Erin Sandler
Miles in Memory of Matt, the Journey Continues

Fundraiser Login
Donate

$1,070

Raised of $3,500

Miles in Memory of Matt, the Journey Continues

                                                                                             

Welcome to my Cross for LifeFlight fundraising page, and thank you for taking the time to visit.

This year marks my sixth Cross for LifeFlight.

In August 2020, my family experienced the unimaginable when my brother lost his life in a tragic accident. During those critical moments, LifeFlight of Maine flew him approximately 110 miles, giving him every possible chance. Although his injuries were ultimately too severe, I will always be grateful that he had access to the exceptional care LifeFlight provides.

Almost a year later, I learned about Cross for LifeFlight. It quickly became much more than a fundraiser—it became a way to honor my brother's memory while supporting an organization that provides hope to thousands of families across Maine.

For the past five years, I've honored him by cycling 110 miles each week throughout the month of August, with every mile representing one mile of the flight that gave him every possible chance.

This year, I'm changing the challenge—but not the meaning behind it.

My theme for this year's Crossing is "The Journey Continues."

This year I'll complete 220 miles throughout the month of August:

Bike – 110 miles
Hike – 20 miles
Kayak – 40 miles
Walk/Run – 50 miles

The distances are intentional.

The 110 miles of cycling continue to represent the approximately 110 miles that LifeFlight flew my brother, giving him every possible chance.

The additional 110 miles—made up of hiking, kayaking, and walking or running—represent something different. They are a reminder that his journey was not easy. He fought through unimaginable challenges during that flight, and while I can never truly understand what he endured, I wanted this year's Crossing to challenge me in a new way. Those extra miles are my way of honoring his strength, his fight, and the lasting impact he continues to have on my life.

Each activity also carries its own meaning:

Bike – Endurance and perseverance.
The strength to keep moving forward, even when the road is long.

Hike – Carrying grief uphill, one step at a time.
Some days are steeper than others, but every step matters.

Kayak – Finding calm and reflection.
Time to slow down, remember, and appreciate the people we love.

Walk/Run – Remembering.
Quiet miles spent reflecting on my brother, celebrating his life, and carrying his memory forward.

As a firefighter/paramedic in Maine, I have seen firsthand how vital LifeFlight is to our state's emergency medical system. Whether responding to a traumatic injury on one of Maine's islands, a critically ill patient in a rural community, or an emergency that requires rapid transport to specialized care, LifeFlight serves as an essential link in the chain of survival. Their crews bring ICU-level care directly to patients when every minute matters.

LifeFlight of Maine is the state's only nonprofit air ambulance service, operating helicopters, an airplane, and ground ambulances to serve every corner of Maine. Since its founding, LifeFlight has cared for more than 42,000 patients—one life at a time.

I sincerely hope that you and your loved ones never need their services. But if that day ever comes, you'll be grateful they're there.

If you're able, I'd be honored if you would support my Cross for LifeFlight by making a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure LifeFlight can continue providing lifesaving care to the people of Maine.

Thank you for supporting my journey, for remembering my brother with me, and for helping ensure that other families have access to the same extraordinary care when they need it most.

 

Top Donors

$1,070 Raised By 10 Donors

$500 This Donation is from Dad - Very proud of you for your passionate dedication to continue honoring Matt
$110 This Donation is from John&Jane Labbe
$110 This Donation is from Kelli Knapp
$100 This Donation is from Mary Jo ODay
$75 This Donation is from cheryl carson
$50 This Donation is from Ann Carson
$50 from Anonymous
$25 This Donation is from Jamie Schwellenbach
$25 This Donation is from Jeremy Moreau
$25 This Donation is from Susan Moreau

If you continue to use this site, you consent to use all cookies. We use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. Read how we use cookies and how you can control them by visiting our Privacy Policy.

If you continue to use this site, you consent to use all cookies.