Joe Emerson and the aeromedical system

On October 22, 2023, off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot and a beloved member of his community, Captain Joseph Emerson, suffered a mental health crisis. While riding in the jump seat on a flight back to his hometown, Joe experienced a severe panic attack that threatened the lives and safety of the passengers and flight crew onboard.

Now, the Emerson family is determined to change the industry and the stigma of mental health overall for pilots like Joe, their families, and the flying public in danger.

In just a few weeks since the incident, the FAA has already established a committee to look at “breaking down the barriers that prevent pilots from reporting mental health issues to the agency.” The agency has hired more mental health professionals to decrease “return-to-fly” wait times and are conducting ongoing research about the mental health of pilots. It sounds promising, but it’s not enough, and it’s too late for many. Joe needed to know that it would have been okay to talk to a therapist without repercussions, and he needed the aeromedical system to support him in receiving timely and dependable care without the fear of job insecurity.

 

While the family has received tremendous support as Joe’s future and career are on hold, they will continue to need extensive mental health treatment for Joe, his wife Sarah, and their two young boys. They continue to incur exorbitant legal fees and travel costs while relying on only one part-time income and embrace the many unknowns their future holds.

During this incredibly challenging time, your generous contributions will help to allow Sarah to focus on her husband’s health and the well-being of the family. Your dollars will also go directly toward legal fees, activism, and outreach that not only help the family but will continue to advance the wellbeing of the airline industry for years to come, making the world and travel safer for us all. Sarah, Joe, and their two boys are unendingly grateful for your selfless support. Happy holidays!

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/10/us/alaska-airlines-pilot-joseph-emerson-mushrooms.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare