A Massachusetts mother recounted her family cruise that took a terrifying turn when her son experienced a life-threatening medical emergency 350 nautical miles from the nearest hospital onshore. The Carnival Cruise Lines’ Venezia set sail from New York City for a 10-day cruise to the Bahamas and through the Caribbean. After the ship’s medics discovered that 12-year-old Aiden had a perforated bowel that required immediate surgery, rescuers from the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing flew 1,200 miles over eight hours and needed three air-to-air refuelings to medevac Angela Bridges and her son from the ship in the Atlantic Ocean.
Dramatic photos showed the mother and son being hoisted up into HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters that rushed to their aid. Two HC-130J Combat King II aircraft and two teams of combat rescue officers from Patrick Space Force Base in Florida were involved in the rescue operation. Bridges spoke of the ordeal and how her son, although not responsive enough to be frightened during the rescue, was still recovering from the traumatic experience. Doctors at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in North Carolina are still investigating why the medical emergency occurred.
Bridges recounted how her family was ecstatic for their vacation onboard the Venezia, which quickly turned into concern when Aiden’s health deteriorated. Thinking he was seasick or had overeaten, the family didn’t initially realize the seriousness of the situation. After Aiden couldn’t keep food down, the medical staff on the ship realized they couldn’t help and contacted rescuers. Bridges praised the ship’s staff for their support and handling of the situation, ensuring her son’s comfort and communication throughout.
The mother was moved by the care provided to her family during the rescue, noting the efforts made to keep them comfortable during the ordeal. After being medevaced to the hospital in North Carolina, the cruise line upgraded their internet service free of charge so they could stay in touch with the family members who remained on the ship. The cruise line also allowed them to cancel excursions and refunded their fees, showing exceptional care and consideration for the family during a challenging time.
Despite the traumatic experience, Bridges had mixed feelings about future cruises, considering both the terrible situation that unfolded and the exceptional care provided by Carnival and their staff. She acknowledged that while the incident has raised concerns about cruising, the handling of the situation by the cruise line has left her conflicted. The mother expressed gratitude for the support and care provided to her family, noting that Carnival went above and beyond in meeting their needs. The ordeal has given her much to consider when it comes to deciding on future cruise vacations.
