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Devastating End to Family’s Disney World Vacation as Grandmother Trapped in Florida

A family’s dream vacation to Walt Disney World has turned into a heartbreaking ordeal after an elderly guest fell ill and became stranded in Orlando, Florida.

Crowds on Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom at Disney World
Credit: Marada, Flickr

Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida is often referred to as the “most magical place on Earth,” but for Patricia Bunting and her family, their visit brought an unexpected tragedy.

Patricia Bunting, 76, from Wigan, Greater Manchester, UK, had spent years saving for a Disney trip with her children and grandson. Sadly, during their visit, Bunting collapsed and has been hospitalized in Florida for over seven weeks.

Bunting suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and atrial fibrillation (AF). While on vacation in November 2024, she contracted coronavirus and the flu, leaving her bedridden. According to Bristol Live, her family has raised £40,000 in an effort to bring her home.

A scenic view of the Cinderella castle at Disney World
Credit: Inside the Magic

Their plans to transport Ms. Bunting back to the UK recently hit a devastating roadblock. “I’m afraid mum isn’t coming home yet due to complications, so she’s in hospital in the US,” said Bunting’s daughter Emma, via Bristol Live. “I haven’t got an exact date as of yet when she will be returning, I’m afraid. It’s a massive blow and shock to all our family as we are eagerly waiting for Mum’s safe return.”

One of the family’s biggest challenges has been the lack of travel insurance. As Bristol Live reported, Bunting couldn’t afford the £3,000 insurance premium she was quoted, seemingly due to her pre-existing conditions.

The situation began on November 23 when Ms. Bunting fell ill and was rushed to Dr. P. Phillips Hospital in Orlando. She initially spent five days in the intensive care unit. Unfortunately, her other children and grandson had to return to the UK as planned on November 28, leaving Emma to navigate the situation. The British Embassy in Miami has reportedly been unable to assist.

The entrance sign to Disney World showcases Mickey and Minnie Mouse. The archway, highlighted by colorful flags, stands proudly against a backdrop of palm trees and a cloudy sky, perfectly capturing the enchanting spirit of Walt Disney World.
Credit: rickpilot_2000, Flickr

Despite knowing the risks, Ms. Bunting was determined to make this trip, calling Disney her “happy place” and viewing it as her final chance to share the experience with her family.

The exact source of her illnesses remains unknown. However, Walt Disney World Resort and other areas of Orlando see heightened crowds during late November, especially around Thanksgiving. This peak season coincides with Florida’s flu season, which health officials have recently deemed “very high” and which spans October through May.

As the family continues to face this unimaginable ordeal, we will continue to update this developing story.

Thomas Hitchen

When he’s not thinking about the Magic Kingdom, Thomas is usually reading a book, becoming desperately obsessed with fictional characters, or baking something delicious (his favorite is chocolate cake -- to bake and to eat). He's a dreamer and grew up on Mulan saving the world, Jim Hawkins soaring through the stars, and Padmé Amidala fighting a Nexu. At the Parks, he loves to ride Everest, stroll down Main Street with an overstuffed pin lanyard around his neck, and eat as many Mickey-shaped ice creams as possible. His favorite character is Han Solo (yes, he did shoot first), and his… More »

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