McEwen Hospitalized in Bangkok; Flown Home

CC Bob McEwen on his way home

Thanks to CC Cid Atwood we learned that globetrotting Bob McEwen was hospitalized in Bangkok and had to be flown home in an aerial ambulance.  We checked in with Bob’s daughter Megan Britt, and received the following info:

Hi Jack – Against my wishes, Dad and a friend were on their way to Myanmar to join a tour group for a river cruise.  While on a layover in Bangkok on January 23^rd , Dad’s blood pressure dropped to a dangerously low level and he was transported via ambulance to Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital.  After a few days in ICU his blood pressure was stabilized, but his blood oxygen levels were low and he was getting very confused and disoriented.  He was kept in ICU while tests were run by a neurologist and pulmonologist.  Although his mental condition was improved, they were unable to get his oxygen levels stable enough to declare him “fit to fly” commercially.  An escort/rescue nurse was recommended and sent to accompany him home, but the airlines would not allow him to board due to the doctor’s report on his oxygen levels.

Finally, after 13 days in intensive care, the insurance carrier approved an air ambulance (Lear Jet 35A) to bring him home.  The air ambulance arrived in Bangkok yesterday and he departed around 9:00 PM (EST).  He is expected to arrive back in Atlanta Friday morning where he will be admitted to a local hospital for evaluation. 

Thank you for your concern.  I have been keeping Cynthia Atwood updated throughout this ordeal.  

In a follow-on email Megan indicated that Bob had taken out trip insurance and that paid for the aerial ambulance, a Cessna Citation jet.