# 93-year-old veteran takes to the skies in stunt plane

> A hospice patient fulfills his lifelong dream of aerobatic flying with help from his care team.
- Title: 93-year-old veteran takes to the skies in stunt plane
- Summary: A hospice patient fulfills his lifelong dream of aerobatic flying with help from his care team. Hospice programs that prioritize patients' bucket list goals…
- Keywords: thomas judge, army veteran, hospice patient, stunt flying, caris healthcare, three most important things program, eric backsheider, morristown airport, tennessee, bucket list, end of life care, news
- Source: Valleynewslive — https://valleynewslive.com/2026/09/16/93-year-old-veteran-hospice-patient-fulfills-dream-going-stunt-flying
- Published: 2026-09-16T20:11:30.467+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: thomas judge, army veteran, hospice patient, stunt flying, caris healthcare, three most important things program, eric backsheider, morristown airport, tennessee, bucket list, end of life care, news
## 93-year-old veteran chases lifelong dream
Thomas Judge, an Army veteran in hospice care, fulfilled his dream of stunt flying on Thursday morning in Morristown, Tennessee.
## Hospice program honors bucket list wishes
Caris Healthcare's "The Three Most Important Things" program discovers what matters most to patients and works to make those wishes come true.
## Judge's passion for planes runs deep
When asked about his biggest wishes, Judge's lifelong passion for airplanes and desire to experience stunt flying stood out clearly to his care team.
## Local pilot makes dream possible
Judge's hospice team partnered with pilot Eric Backsheider to turn the veteran's ambition into reality with an unforgettable flight.
## Acrobatic flight over East Tennessee
The flight took off from Morristown Airport, with Backsheider performing thrilling acrobatic maneuvers while Judge enjoyed a bird's-eye view of the region.
## Joy and dignity at life's end
Caregivers said the morning reminded them of the power of bringing joy, adventure and dignity to patients while celebrating a lifetime of service.
## Key takeaway

Hospice programs that prioritize patients' bucket list goals can deliver profound joy and dignity at life's end.