Last week the Coast Guard Air Station Sitka in Alaska responded to a call from Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess at 0138, requesting medical assistance for an 81-year old female passenger suffering from a blocked artery in her right leg.
The ship was sailing in Fredrick’s Sound when a MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter arrived at 4:28 a.m., where they safely hoisted the women from the ship. The Coast Guard Medevac aircrew then transported her to Juneau where she was transferred at 5:11 a.m. to a Guardian Flight to Seattle for advanced medical care.
“This case went very smooth and quick,” said Adam De Rocher, 17th District watchstander. “Communications with the ship crew and good weather all worked together to help facilitate a quick and successful rescue effort, allowing our crew to safely deliver the patient to Juneau for further transportation to Seattle and medical care there.”
The 2,670-guest Diamond Princess is spending the summer alternating North and Southbound Alaska Cruises. This is a great reminder to always carry travel insurance.
Subscribe to our Cruise News Updates.