By: Paola Diaz

Giovanna Russo is a resident at the Elmcrest Group Home in Etobicoke. After moving into Elmcrest almost two years ago, Giovanna had her first Person Directed Plan (PDP) meeting and was asked to share her dreams and aspirations for the future. If you know Giovanna, you know that she is active and busy in the community and loves trying new things (even if she is scared).

At her PDP meeting she enthusiastically shared with her team, “I want to fly a plane” and loves the idea of being a pilot.  Staff had their work cut out, supporting Giovanna’s dream to fly a plane and to help her make it a reality.

It was clear Giovanna had to start with baby steps.  The summer of 2017, Giovanna purchased a Wonderland Season Pass, to ride roller coasters that are out of her comfort zone and to experience the thrill of flying.

Next she subscribed to an airplane magazine to learn more about planes and flying. Getting closer to her dream, we found a simulation experience located in Mississauga called UFLY.  On November 27, 2018, Giovanna had the most amazing opportunity to fly a Boeing 777 through this simulation experience. She lifted off from Pearson Airport, drove all over Toronto,  right beside the CN tower, all the way to Niagara Falls and back to Pearson! She was the pilot the entire way through with an experienced co-pilot by her side giving her brief directions.  Giovanna was amazing!

As Giovanna’s staff, it was a proud moment watching her achieve her dream of becoming a pilot and flying a commercial aircraft.

Giovanna after flying over the GTA