Louisiana woman hospitalized for genital trauma after cruise accident in Honduras

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — What was supposed to be a memorable first cruise became a nightmare for a young Louisiana woman who suffered a catastrophic injury during a rope swing excursion in Honduras, forcing a nearly $50,000 emergency air evacuation back to the United States.

The incident occurred on the third day of a Carnival cruise, according to the woman’s boyfriend, Blake. While participating in a shore excursion, Kirsten Lindsey was injured when a retrieval line appeared to have been improperly connected to the swing, Blake said.

“The line suddenly tightened between Kirsten’s legs just before she dropped,” Blake explained, describing what he called a catastrophic saddle injury.

Kirsten initially believed the injury was only a scratch and returned to the dock. However, hours later, her condition deteriorated rapidly as swelling and pain became increasingly severe. It wasn’t long before the injury swelled to the size of a baseball.

Kirsten’s mother, Tara, said she spent more than 12 hours in the ship’s medical center, and the couple later learned Costa Maya was their best option for evacuation because it was the nearest location with airport access.

Blake said he called 911 from the ship, and Kirsten was rushed to the vessel’s medical center, where she was treated for several hours. Before they were allowed to leave the ship, the couple paid approximately $4,000 out of pocket for medical care.

As her condition worsened, they were presented with three options: remain in the ship’s medical facility for the rest of the cruise, travel to a hospital in Mexico and find their own way home, or arrange an emergency air evacuation back to the United States. Blake said the evacuation ultimately cost about $20,000 to leave Costa Maya and another $30,000 to return to the United States.

“We chose the air evacuation because we believed it was the best way to get Kirsten the care she needed,” Blake said.

After hours of delays, Kirsten was transported by ambulance to an airport, where a private medical jet flew her to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She was then taken to HCA Florida Aventura Hospital, where she underwent her first surgery.

The couple now faces mounting medical bills, travel expenses, lost income, and the challenge of getting themselves and their vehicle back home to Louisiana.

After returning home, Kirsten continued receiving treatment through CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center. She is currently undergoing a second surgery as she continues her recovery from the injuries sustained during the excursion.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help Kirsten and her family as they navigate the challenges of her recovery, and they are asking for continued prayers and support throughout the healing process.

If you would like to donate, click here.

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