Fort McMurray Family Finds Hope After Medical Emergency in Mexico
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — A Fort McMurray family may finally be able to return home after a dream vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, turned into a nightmare.
Albert and Karla Forsey, along with their two children, had just arrived for a family holiday earlier this month when Karla suffered a sudden medical emergency. She was rushed to the emergency room of a private hospital, where her condition worsened, and her heart stopped. Medical staff resuscitated her, but swelling in her brain required doctors to place her in a medically induced coma.
“With Karla in ICU in Mexico, and me being separated from the kids at this time of year has been brutal, to say the least,” said Albert Forsey.
In the weeks since the incident, Karla’s condition stabilized, making her eligible for transfer back to Alberta. However, the family faced hurdles as Mexican doctors and their travel-medical insurance company struggled to secure an ICU bed in the province.
“Karla-Rae fights for her life while we wait for a bed to open up in Alberta,” said Albert. “We’ve been waiting since the 17th when she became stable enough to medevac via an air ambulance.”
Albert Forsey reached out to Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo MLA Tany Yao for assistance. On Thursday evening, the Forsey family learned Alberta Health Services (AHS) had arranged a bed and was coordinating with the Mexican medical team to bring Karla home in time for Christmas.
Kerry Williamson, a spokesperson for AHS, said it was important to ensure patient safety before receiving her from out of the country.
“Patient care and safety are our top priorities,” said Williamson. “We work diligently to ensure the safest and most appropriate environment, along with a qualified care team, is in place before receiving Alberta patients from out of the country.”
Williamson added that, while he cannot speak about the specifics of individual cases, he can confirm AHS now has a bed available to receive Karla Forsey.
The news brought relief to the family, who had been buoyed by an outpouring of support from their community. Fundraising efforts—including a raffle by Prestige Jewelers and a karaoke marathon at a local pub—helped ease financial strains and offered emotional encouragement during their ordeal.
“There are so many things that have warmed our hearts and souls during this hard time,” said Albert. “The countless outpouring of generosity we have received from friends, family, and strangers alike. Many fundraisers, well wishes and prayers have come our way. It is hard to even talk about without getting choked up.”
While final arrangements for Karla’s medevac flight are still underway, Albert expressed gratitude for the community’s support and the prospect of being back in Alberta.
“We can’t wait to come home and say thank you in person,” he said.
The family now hopes to close this phase of what may be a long journey toward healing, but one that can take place at home near family and loved ones.