Child in Critical Condition After Seizure on Disney Ride, Emergency Efforts Activated

On September 21, 2024, a five-year-old boy faced a life-threatening situation while enjoying the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind attraction at EPCOT.

Just moments into the ride, he lost consciousness, prompting an immediate and desperate call for aid from his mother, Christine Tagle. According to her account shared on social media, as the ride reached around 20 seconds in, she noticed her child was unresponsive. In a panic, she pulled him from the ride, calling out for assistance from nearby cast members.

The incident unfolded during a particularly busy day at Disney World, with park reservations for EPCOT sold out due to the excitement surrounding the ride’s special soundtrack, which featured “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire being played on repeat.

However, in an unexpected turn, the ride was temporarily closed amidst the emergency situation, causing significant concern among both cast members and guests in the vicinity.

Overview of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind has become a hallmark of EPCOT since its debut on May 27, 2022.

This indoor roller coaster not only features a thrilling ride experience but also intertwines fans of the Marvel franchise with Disney’s legacy of storytelling.

The ride is set against the backdrop of a cosmic adventure where guests work alongside the Guardians to save the universe, enhancing its appeal.

On September 21, the attraction reached peak popularity as visitors flocked to experience the special offering.

One of the unique features of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is its rotating soundtrack. Six songs from the 1970s and 1980s are randomly selected for each ride, creating a different experience each time.

“September” by Earth, Wind & Fire is a standout track on the playlist. This iconic song, released in 1978, adds a nostalgic and upbeat energy to the ride, perfectly matching the Guardians’ quirky, retro style.

On September 21, the ride featured “September” on repeat, creating a special experience for guests. The popularity of riding the attraction on this date led to the park selling out of Park Pass Reservations.

However, beyond the enjoyment, the day became somber as the life-threatening incident shifted focus toward guest safety and the rapid response capabilities of the park’s staff.

Critical Life-Saving Actions Performed

The swift actions of cast members played a pivotal role in the critical care the young boy received after losing consciousness. Following the mother’s call for help, immediate interventions were set in motion. The first responders at the scene included cast members who quickly guided the family to a secluded area for emergency care.

Christine Tagle, trained in CPR, began resuscitation efforts on her son.

Shortly thereafter, assistance arrived in the form of a nurse and an EMT, both of whom were visiting EPCOT that day. Together, they joined forces with the cast members to stabilize the boy until emergency medical services could provide further assistance.

The presence of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on-site became a crucial lifeline during the incident, further underscoring the importance of medical preparedness in crowded attractions.

In the aftermath, Christine expressed gratitude toward the cast members and bystanders involved in the life-saving measures. As her social media post gained traction, the community’s response highlighted the effectiveness of teamwork and training in emergency situations, enhancing recognition for those who acted quickly.

In a Facebook post, Tagle said, “My Son is alive, my son lived because when his (now we know) genetic heart disease presented itself we were at Disney where there is an AED everywhere. My son is alive because we were at Disney with trained staff. My son is alive because of this couple. My son is alive because I was a trained in CPR (parents PLEASE PLEASE get trained if you aren’t)”.

Disney’s Commitment to Guest Safety

Disney World maintains a robust commitment to guest safety, particularly illustrated through its extensive training programs for cast members. Medical procedures are proactively organized within the park, ensuring that staff can efficiently respond to emergencies like the one that occurred on September 21.

First aid stations strategically located throughout EPCOT are staffed by trained medical professionals, including nurses and EMTs, ready to assist with health concerns. Cast members undergo rigorous training and simulations to prepare them for various emergencies that may arise during day-to-day operations, ensuring that swift responses can be executed at a moment’s notice.

The accessibility of critical medical equipment, such as AEDs in each attraction, signifies the strategic planning behind Disney’s safety protocols.

By integrating healthcare training within their operational framework, Disney potentially mitigates risks posed by rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, while simultaneously fostering a sense of security among guests and their families.

Speaking of Cosmic Rewind, guests who experience motion sickness can now receive bags from cast members as they exit the ride.

The ride’s unique features, including a reverse launch and a rotating train, may contribute to motion sickness. Guests may also find the dark show building with its stars disorienting.

To accommodate guests who may feel unwell, additional garbage cans with open lids have been installed along the ride exits.

The alarming incident served as a powerful reminder of the unpredictability surrounding health emergencies. However, it also showcased the effectiveness and preparedness of Disney’s staff in managing such crises, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for its visitors.

Have you ever felt ill while riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind?