Letter To United Airlines Flight Attendants

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"I believe that the airplanes that are flying now are held up by Flight Attendant angels that have gone before us."

August 8, 2006

Dear Flight Attendants:

Hello. My name is Cathie Ong-Herrera. I am the sister of Betty Ann Ong, an American Airlines, Flight 11 Flight Attendant, who heroically gave her life on September 11, 2001. First, let me begin by saying that I am honored that your President, Darren Shiroma asked if I would write you a letter, as we approach the five-year mark from the events of that tragic day.

So much has happened since the tragic events of 9/11 that it seems like a part of distant history for many people. The disastrous and horrific events of that day held the attention of the world. Certainly, the eventful day and days that followed are etched in all of our memories as we as a family and nation came to terms with the attacks and tremendous loss of life. We were united by an extraordinary sense of shock, grief and sadness. We were united by patriotism as evidenced by flags displayed everywhere and on our cars. We were united in our love, care and concern for each other.

However, for the families who lost loved ones and the individuals who were injured, we were united with the pain, sorrow and grief of that day, just as I know many of you feel because of the loss of your colleagues. I know this because Betty used to tell me that her Flight Attendant colleagues were like her second family away from home.

Life has moved on for many people, especially if they were not directly impacted by the events. For me, it still feels like it happened only yesterday. The reality of Betty being gone is still difficult for me to conceive. At times, I feel like I am stuck in a time capsule, as the world passes me by.

Betty was not only my sister, she was my best friend. Losing Betty has been the most challenging experience of my life, physically and emotionally. It shattered my sense of well-being. It hurt my heart to see my parents and siblings suffer their most devastating loss.

In the days and weeks that followed, we felt that there had to be more to Betty’s life than a sudden and tragic ending, that her love, goodness and kindness are much more powerful than any evil’s act. We felt that there had to be a positive that can be born out of this tragedy to survive, if possible.

In memory of Betty, the Betty Ann Ong Foundation www.bettyong.org, a not for profit public charity, was established to continue her legacy. We wanted to capture the caring and nurturing spirit of my sister. Betty was a kid at heart and had a great love for children. It was important to her that children had a positive self-image and confidence at an early age. In honor of Betty, the goal of the Foundation was created to educate children to the positive benefits of lifelong physical activity and healthful eating habits, and to provide them with the opportunity to experience the great outdoors so that they can become healthy, strong and productive individuals.

With the help of family and friends, the Foundation sponsored seven youths to summer camp this year. I had the honor of meeting Madisyn, who wrote to the Foundation asking for help. Her story about her struggle with being overweight is one that is heart tugging and compelling. Bittersweet as it may be, there are no words to describe how I felt when the Foundation granted Madisyn her dream come true (see story below). I know that Betty’s spirit will live on in each child that we are able to help.

In closing, I would like to say that over the past few years I’ve been humbled to hear so many share their personal stories of where they were and what they felt on the morning of 9/11; of their memories, of their struggles to overcome the worst day in American history, and how the struggle gave them a feeling of connection to something larger - the need to open their arms to help each other.

I know that it has been very difficult for many of you to come to terms with the events of that day, and now, it is almost five years later. Be kind and gentle to yourself. Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings with someone who can help you. Remember our fallen heroes and in their spirit, move forward with positive thoughts and actions, and cherish your purpose in life.

Know that I am very proud of you for continuing to put on your uniform, for getting on that big bad bird and for keeping the passengers and our skies safe! I believe that the airplanes that are flying now are held up by Flight Attendant angels that have gone before us. Be assured that they watch over you and care for you.

With warmest thoughts,

Cathie Ong

Loving sister of Betty Ann Ong

If you want to send your own letter to Cathie, please send your email to us at afalax@unitedafa.org and we’ll forward it to her.