The Disney Dream had just set sail Thursday when the Coast Guard had to be called to medevac a 46-year-old man due to medical complications.
The ship was 78 miles southeast of West Palm Beach when the Coast Guard 7th District Command Center received a medevac request. One of the ships passengers was experiencing medical complications and needed higher care than was available aboard the ship. They quickly directed the launch of a Coast Guard Air Station Miami MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew to assist.
‘This was one of those times where every second counted, and I’m very grateful for the professionalism of the Disney crew and the hospital staff in their efforts to transport the patient as safely and efficiently as possible,’ said Lt. Michael Wightman, MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircraft commander. ‘The entire flight crew wishes for the patient’s speedy recovery and a safe return home.’
The helicopter crew arrived on scene with the vessel, hoisted the patient and flew him to Saint Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach for further medical care.