The Balloon Man, Fulfilling Your Dreams and Passion, My Generation—AARP

The Balloon Man

A former nine-to-fiver gets his dreams off the ground

After 15 years working in healthcare administration, Michael Gerrad decided there had to be more to life than pushing papers. Not having the fun he thought he should be having, he quit his job and chased after his first love: flying. Now, his corner office is a large basket dangling beneath 105,000 cubic feet of hot air.

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Michael is a pilot who gives scenic tours to any and all guests looking for the thrill of dreamlike flight. From and marriage proposals to 50th wedding anniversaries and people just up for a one-of-a-kind ride, his beloved passangers are always looking for something special. “I don’t think anyone who’s had a balloon experience wouldn’t admit that it was something quite unique and different that changed the way they look at the world,” Michael says.

takes to the skies to learn how this former nine-to-fiver got his dreams off the ground.

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