Rebecca Scarborough was a tireless activist for racial justice and the rights of immigrants and refugees and advocate for her LGBTQ+, disabled, and Jewish communities. Two years ago, LifeFlight's helicopters transported Rebecca from her home in Camden, Maine, to Portland and then to Boston, to get the emergency, lifesaving care she needed. Because of that care, Rebecca was able to continue to advocate for the many causes she supported....until her heart finally gave out on July 2, 2023 (she was in Maine's capital, just months before, standing up for the paid family and medical leave program that became part of an historic budget agreement passed just days after her death). What better way to honor Rebecca's memory than to raise money for the compassionate and capable organization that made it possible for us to have Rebecca--and her passion, empathy, dedication, laughter, and love--just a little while longer.
Yes, we are asking for donations for LifeFlight. So you are entitled to ask: What is LifeFlight? LifeFlight of Maine is a nonprofit organization and Maine's only emergency medical helicopter service. With three helicopters, an airplane, and ground ambulances, LifeFlight brings ICU-level care directly to the patient. Now in its 25th year, LifeFlight has served more than 36,000 patients, one life at a time, from every community and hospital in the state. LifeFlight plays a critical role in the “chain of survival” by connecting people to the care they need. Not only people who live in Maine, but also those who are just visiting, can depend on LifeFlight to be there for them.
We are supporting LifeFlight by participating in their annual Cross for LifeFlight Fundraiser, a challenge that symbolizes the difficulties of providing lifesaving emergency medical care to Maine's many island and rural communities. Previously, the Cross for LifeFlight was a 3-mile, open-water swim from the mainland to an island. Lucky for all of us, this year’s Crossing involves a variety of activities, meaning anyone can actually participate—with the added advantage of expecting to survive! During August and September, we pledge to walk, swim, hike, kayak, do yoga, play pickle ball, you name it…and keep track of miles, and or time, to report back to our donors (anyone want to hazard a guess of the final total for the team?).
It is so much easier for you (no exercise involved, at all!) to support this important cause in memory of Rebecca. Just click on the “donate” button. Any amount is greatly appreciated.
Thanks so much for supporting this critically important service. Rebecca would have really appreciated it!!
P.S. Special thanks to Rebecca’s uncle, Howard Freedman, for his description of Rebecca, from which I have borrowed liberally. If you want to know what we lost, consider what Howard said in his tribute to Rebecca, “I would have gladly handed the reins of my country to her.”
