The Calvin Ayre Foundation (CAF) has executed two critical medical evacuation operations in early 2026, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to addressing urgent healthcare deficiencies through strategic public-private partnerships. These life-saving missions were conducted in coordination with the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) and regional medical facilities.
The Foundation’s first medevac mission of the year involved Mr. Paqual Peters, who required immediate pulmonary evaluation and treatment unavailable locally. CAF arranged and funded aerial transportation via CalvinAir Helicopters, while MBS provided comprehensive financial coverage for all medical procedures. Mr. Peters was transferred to Martinique under the medical supervision of Dr. Benjamin Bridge, Senior Registrar in Internal Medicine at Sir Lester Bird Medical Center, ensuring continuous care throughout the transition. The patient has since returned to Antigua following successful treatment, with his sister Esther King expressing profound gratitude for the Foundation’s intervention.
Shortly following this operation, CAF coordinated a second emergency evacuation for a 15-year-old female patient requiring specialized care not accessible in Antigua. The adolescent was transported to Trinidad & Tobago for comprehensive medical assessment, diagnostic testing, and subsequent treatment. While MBS assumed responsibility for hospitalization and medical expenses, the Foundation contributed significantly to air ambulance costs. CAF worked collaboratively with the patient’s family and physicians to facilitate both compassionate and expedient transfer.
Patrice Jacobs, Media Associate of CAF, noted: ‘The rapid succession of these emergencies has challenged our response capabilities, yet we remain dedicated to serving critical healthcare needs within our community. Providing swift assistance to this young patient and her family was both a privilege and honor.’
These consecutive medical evacuations highlight the Foundation’s unwavering dedication to healthcare equity and demonstrate the powerful impact of collaborative efforts between private organizations and public institutions in addressing urgent medical necessities.