Microlight flying and disability: a dream within wing's reach!
Bringing microlight and medical organisations together is rewarding and breaks down barriers between worlds that do not usually meet.
In Montauban, the AAMCA (Association aéronautique montalbanaise des constructeurs amateurs) took this step with pleasure. Two young adults from the ASEI (Association pour la Sauvegarde des Enfants Invalides) in Fonneuve enjoyed a first flight that they will not forget in a hurry.
This flight was prepared with great care. It followed a resident's wish to fulfil the dream of his life, that of flying. A few days before take-off, the medical team met the members of the AAMCA at their site, among them Jean-Michel Husson, an experienced pilot and volunteer instructor within the flying organisation. This time spent getting to know each other and talking made it possible to confirm in practical terms José's dream, and that of his companion Jérôme.
On the day fixed between the two teams, the weather was generous: a magnificent blue sky and sunshine.
Before boarding, the pilot took the time to explain the special features of the aircraft used: "It is a three-axis microlight. This aircraft is particularly suited to carrying people with disabilities, thanks to its high wing and the very easy access on board for people with physical impairments."
After a climb lasting 30 minutes, at a speed of 170 km/h, the little aircraft flew at a height of 3 000 feet (a thousand metres) over part of Montauban, the Tordre dam at Génébrières, and of course the ASEI in Fonneuve, to the great delight of the day's two successive passengers, with their shining eyes and broad smiles.
Beforehand, the medical team had thought carefully about making the project a reality down to the smallest detail, around an event that creates meeting, happiness and openness towards others. This sightseeing outing, an enchanted interlude for the residents, enriched both teams. After thanking the members of the AAMCA, and in particular Hubert and Jean-Michel, Fany Fogliata, a specialist educator, wished to say: "For me, it was an intense moment. It is priceless to see the happiness in the residents' eyes. I am proud for them to have accompanied them in this venture."
As for Jean-Michel Husson, he said: "It was an intense experience. I really enjoyed supporting José and Jérôme's project. Our personal contact was warm."
This experience, new in the way it was carried out, should be repeated in the near future.
