A Final Flight for Ailing Angel Wallenda

Angel Wallenda said goodby to the high wire Sunday night, joining her husband and 3-year-old son for a last performance before an operation she hopes will arrest the cancer that claimed her right leg.

Steven Wallenda joined his wife and their toddler, Steven II, on the wire that has brought fame to the Flying Wallendas for decades. Steven II rode in a harness on his father’s shoulders.

Angel Wallenda, now 21, was found to have bone cancer in 1987. Doctors amputated her right leg and fit her with a prosthesis.

The cancer has affected her lungs, and she is to have further surgery March 20 at City of Hope National Medical Center in Duarte.

The surgery will end Angel’s career as an aerialist. Her husband said he and their son will continue in the performing tradition.