July 23, 2025
Students from the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Nursing recently helped fulfill a lifelong dream for Hillsborough resident Rodney Magnum, who has been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. With support from his daughter Christy Fox, Sky-Bound Aviation in Greensboro, and the UNC-Chapel Hill chapter of DreamCatchers, Mr. Magnum took to the sky for a 30-minute flight over the Burlington and Greensboro area.
DreamCatchers is a student organization dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of hospice patients or individuals nearing the end of life. The UNC-Chapel Hill chapter is led by nursing students Lea Thomas (president) and Taylor Brewer (vice president).
Mr. Magnum’s fascination with planes dates back decades. His daughter shared that he’s loved watching them for as long as she can remember. Although initially apprehensive, his nerves settled as soon as he entered the plane and heard the engine start. A smile spread across his face as he and Christy lifted off, piloted by a 22-year-old aviator from Sky-Bound Aviation.
Upon landing, the group welcomed Mr. Magnum with cupcakes, a balloon arch, and a celebratory baseball cap gifted by the aviation team.
“It is such an honor to be able to fulfill wishes like these,” said Lea Thomas, UNC DreamCatchers president. “Getting out into our local community and seeing firsthand the impact we can have on bridging the gap between the older and younger generations is heartwarming. I hope to complete more dreams in the next year.”
The UNC DreamCatchers chapter includes many nursing students who are passionate about community engagement and enriching the lives of older adults. The group continues to find meaningful ways to honor and support those in hospice care across the region.
