Priscilla (Pat) H. Blum, Pilot and CAN Co-Founder, Has Passed
/Priscilla (Pat) H. Blum, a licensed commercial pilot and co-founder of Corporate Angel Network (CAN), has passed away at the age of 97.
After Blum was treated for breast cancer in New York City, she realized how expensive and grueling transportation was for patients who needed to fly long distances for treatment. In 1981, she partnered with Leonard M. Greene and Jay N. Weinberg to develop Corporate Angel Network’s model of asking corporations to fly cancer patients on their aircraft. CAN now works with over 500 corporations and has flown over 66,000 patient flights.
Blum has been recognized for her inspirational work over the years, including National Aeronautic Association’s Katharine Wright Memorial Trophy and an induction into the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame.
“Pat is an inspiration and if it were not for her creativity, dedication and perseverance, CAN would not exist today,” said CAN Executive Director, Gina Russo. “We always enjoyed giving her updates on the successes of the organization she helped to create.”