Need suggestions on how to transport elderly paternal unit quickly.
 

My sister has been told by the Dr. that NOW is the time to make some "end of life" arrangements for our mom. The plan is to get her back to Missouri where the rest of the family is and where she can reside in a nursing home. Because of medical and age related issues she cannot fly commercial. Our second option is to rent a motor home and drive back. But that has risk also. Angel Flight is not an option as she doesn't meet their criteria.
Has anyone any ideas or suggestions on the topic?
TIA.

There are many organizations that perform "interstate medical transport". Try a Google search on that phrase.

Here is the first listing
National Medical Transport Specializes In The Transport Of Clients Anywhere In The United States

Paul's suggestion looks to be the best place to start. Best wishes for a solution and a peaceful transition for your mother.

I was pretty sure we couldn't put the MIL on a plane, but with some advance notice, a couple of companions and airport wheelchairs, it worked out. Those same rude airline folks can be fairly nice and helpful if they want to. Based on my experience, I'd say if she could do a motorhome, she can fly.

The private services are great but they do cost a lot.

Read some good stuff here:
Disability Air Travel Information
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/index.shtm

Wish this would have happened 3 weeks ago, I just flew to Missouri with an empty airplane.

Personally I would go the "rent a RV and enjoy the scenery along the way" route. It can be done in three days or so and if she gets tired, pull over and put her to bed and you press on.

I used to do the medivac transportation thing (14 years) and its really expensive if insurance is not picking up the tab.

Joe A

Do you ever have advanced notice when something like this occurs and if so could you take "hitchhikers"? She is on oxygen full time so I'm not sure if she can fly in any circumstance.

It really depends on whats going on. Sometimes it happens with notice but not very often.

Simply being on oxygen is not a big deal, what might not help is the duration of the flight for her.

I forwarded Paul's link to my sister and she agrees that looks like a great plan.
Thanks for the tip Paul.

It was a great lead Paul but I think it's beyong our budget.
$12,685.00 !!

Where are you going from/to? Aside from the oxygen what are her traveling limitations/medical issues?

I don't have any good/inexpensive answers. Winnebago or Amtrak seem like the best ways to go about this if flying is out of the question. There may be risks like you mentioned, but these are risks that might have to be made if returning "home" is a priority.

I was surprised by how expensive Amtrak tickets were. I like the motor home idea. Just be sure you are stocked up on medications. Does she have an oxygen concentrator, is she using tanks or both? I would definitely want to secure any tanks or equipment well. Getting in and out of a rig like that could be a challenge for her.

L.A. to Northern Mo. She is on oxygen, uses the tanks mainly and a C PAP at night. Her mobility is her greatest challenge. But she also has anxiety issues as well.
We're checking on Amtrak but I have no idea how much or how long it would take.

I have an extra O2 tank or two I could loan you for the trip.

There are easy meds that help on the anxiety issue...

Hey Kevin
My buddy and I have a 35' RV, great condition... we not using it other then in Oct. lemme know if you want to discuss...
I'd think Amtrak would be a good option, if her mobility wouldn't be an issue. That would be what a 3-4 day trip?

PM if you want

Jason

Some airlines won't allow you to bring your own oxygen tanks onboard. You can use an oxygen concentrator though.

I don't know about the oxygen question... but I have seen many (very) elderly people getting on and off planes... have you called the airline re: O?

Amtrak is looking like a very good option. They don't have any restrictions in regards to oxygen use and they seem to be very "handicap friendly". They are very accomodating as far as luggage is concerned. They even apply a "traveling attendendant discount fare". We can get a family car with private beds and restroom. It only takes 44 hours from L.A. to Visalia, Mo. We'll call today to explore the fine points but it's looking pretty good right now.
Thanks for the offer Jason and Thanks to everyone who has offered up suggestions.

Kevin, where is Visalia, MO? Never heard of it. Keep in mind Amtrak only runs from Kansas City to St. Louis in Missouri (with stops in between). So your mother may still have a bit of a drive once she gets to Missouri.

Was wondering the same thing. Aint no Visalia in Missouri unless its so small that its not on the internet or mapping programs....

Vincennes maybe? Sedalia?