
An elderly Disney Guest finds herself stranded in Orlando, Florida, after falling gravely ill during a family trip to the Walt Disney World Resort.
A vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida is meant to be a magical, unforgettable celebration, offering families the chance to escape the stresses of the real world. Unfortunately, for one British family, that magic turned into heartbreak when their dream holiday took a tragic turn.
76-year-old Patricia Bunting, a resident of Wigan in Greater Manchester, UK, had been saving for years to bring her children and grandson to Walt Disney World. However, during their visit, Bunting collapsed and has remained hospitalized in Florida for the past seven weeks.
According to Bristol Live, Bunting suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and atrial fibrillation (AF). While on vacation, she contracted coronavirus and the flu in November 2024, leaving her bedridden and unable to return home. Her family, led by her daughter Emma, has since been working tirelessly to raise funds for her safe return, managing to gather £40,000 so far.
The family’s hope of bringing Ms. Bunting home recently suffered a setback. “I’m afraid mum isn’t coming home yet due to complications, so she’s in hospital in the US,” Emma explained 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.”
Adding to the difficulty is the fact that Ms. Bunting couldn’t secure travel insurance for the trip. The outlet revealed that, due to her pre-existing conditions, she was quoted £3,000 for insurance, an expense she simply couldn’t afford.
After falling ill on November 23, Ms. Bunting was admitted to Orlando’s Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, where she spent five days in intensive care. While her children and grandson were forced to return to the UK on November 28, Emma remains hopeful, though the British Embassy in Miami has reportedly been unable to assist.
Despite the risks, Ms. Bunting was determined to make this trip to her “happy place,” believing it would be her last opportunity to experience the magic of Disney with her family.
It remains unclear how Ms. Bunting contracted the illnesses, but late November is a peak period for the Disney parks due to the Thanksgiving holiday, which brings massive crowds. Orlando International Airport also sees an influx of travelers during this time. Additionally, flu season in Florida, which has been labeled “very high,” typically spans from October through May.
As this heartbreaking story unfolds, we will continue to provide updates.