For those who were fortunate enough to have had Maurice Azurdia in ground school while at American Airlines, or to have known him throughout your personal lives or careers, support is needed and welcome as he faces a very difficult recovery journey right now.
As you may know, Maurice was a pilot flying internationally for TWA when a car crash left him suddenly in a wheelchair. He continued his deep love for aviation by becoming a ground instructor for 22 years now, passing along his knowledge and experiences to the next generation of aviators. He is also an accomplished artist; many of his paintings of planes are displayed at American Airlines facilities, and APA presents prints of them to newly upgraded captains. In 2022, the APA Board of Directors made him an honorary member of the association.
Recently, he was injured while transferring from his chair -- an injury that became complicated and life-threatening, and sent him to the hospital for two weeks and three surgeries so far, with more likely to come. He has found himself once again removed from the work that he loves, everyday adventures, and outside activities with family.
His family is very grateful to now have him back at home, but part 2 of the journey begins as he and his wife face both mounting expenses and home hospital care. The healing and home care may take a year. The funds raised through this campaign will go directly toward covering Maurice's mounting hospital bills, home nursing care costs, medical supplies, and supporting the household as he focuses on recovery and is suddenly unable to work for the foreseeable future.
Please help the Azurdia family raise funds for Maurice as he focuses on healing and returning to what he loves -- time spent with family and his passion for aviation. He is in good sprits, but has a long road to recovery ahead of him, and any donation helps. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your friends and family.
Maurice and his family have been greatly moved and feel grateful for the support, messages, thoughts, and prayers, that have already been extended.