A dream vacation to Disney World quickly turned into a nightmare for 76-year-old Patricia Bunting, a grandmother from Wigan, England. While visiting the Orlando theme park with her family in November, Bunting tested positive for COVID-19 and was subsequently hospitalized at Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital after being found unconscious in a bathroom. Now, her family is facing a daunting challenge: bringing her home amidst mounting medical bills and the need for specialized medical transport.
From Disney Magic to Medical Crisis: A Family’s Plea for Help
Bunting’s hospitalization on November 23rd marked the beginning of an agonizing ordeal for her loved ones. Her declining health, already compromised by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requiring the use of a walker and multiple inhalers, took a sharp turn for the worse. Diagnosed with COVID-19, she also battled pneumonia, a gastrointestinal bleed, and blood clots, leaving her reliant on continuous oxygen support. Far from home and surrounded by unfamiliar faces, Bunting expressed her fear of passing away in a foreign hospital, separated from her family.
Her children, desperate to bring their mother back to the familiar comfort of Wigan, launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover the exorbitant costs of a medically-equipped air ambulance. The initial goal of £35,000 (approximately $44,000) was quickly surpassed, demonstrating the outpouring of support from the community. However, the estimated cost of the specialized air ambulance required for Bunting’s safe transport soared to a staggering £130,000 (about $163,000), leaving the family with a significant financial hurdle to overcome. Even the most affordable medically-assisted flight option carried a price tag of around £80,000 (approximately $100,000).
A Race Against Time: Securing a Safe Return Home
Emma, Bunting’s daughter, has been tirelessly updating the GoFundMe page, providing transparent updates on her mother’s condition and the family’s efforts to secure her return. She described her mother as “the heart of our family,” emphasizing the importance of reuniting her with loved ones in Wigan for continued care and emotional support. Emma expressed her heartfelt wish for her mother to be home for Christmas, surrounded by family, love, and the familiar comforts of home. The family remains hopeful, aiming to finalize a plan for Bunting’s repatriation early this week.
The High Cost of Medical Emergencies Abroad: A Cautionary Tale
Bunting’s story serves as a stark reminder of the unforeseen challenges and financial burdens that can arise from medical emergencies abroad. The complexities of international healthcare systems, coupled with the substantial costs of medical evacuation, can quickly overwhelm families facing unexpected crises. Travel insurance, while crucial, may not always cover the full extent of expenses in such situations. Bunting’s case highlights the importance of thorough planning and preparation before traveling internationally, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Community Support and the Power of Hope
Despite the daunting circumstances, the family remains optimistic, drawing strength from the overwhelming support they’ve received. The GoFundMe campaign, fueled by donations and heartfelt messages from around the world, has provided a beacon of hope during this difficult time. Emma expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of kindness, acknowledging the comfort and hope it has brought to their family. As Patricia Bunting continues her fight for recovery, her family and supporters remain united in their determination to bring her home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Patricia Bunting’s Situation
Q: What is Patricia Bunting’s current medical condition?
A: As of December 14th, Patricia is battling a second bout of bacterial pneumonia, has experienced a gastrointestinal bleed and blood clots, and remains on continuous oxygen support.
Q: How much has been raised for her medical transport?
A: While the initial GoFundMe goal was surpassed, the family still needs to raise a substantial amount to cover the cost of a medically-equipped air ambulance, estimated to be between £80,000 and £130,000.
Q: What is the family’s plan for bringing her home?
A: The family is working diligently to finalize a plan for Patricia’s repatriation and hopes to have a solution in place early this week.
