In the whirlwind of life’s daily demands, it’s only natural to succumb to the occasional snack craving. However, there’s a time and place for everything, even snacking.
This became all too clear in a recent incident in Thailand, where an ambulance driver took a brief detour to purchase a snack while transporting a critically ill patient, sparking controversy and public outrage.
The Incident Unfolds
According to Thai PBS World, the incident in question took place in Thailand, where an ambulance was on a mission of utmost urgency. On the 13th of October, it was dispatched to transport a 64-year-old patient, Sommai Thongkerd, who was experiencing severe breathing difficulties, to Nakhon Nayok Hospital.
While en route to the hospital, the ambulance driver made an unexpected stop. Instead of rushing the patient to medical care, he decided to indulge in a snack.
The choice? Fried banana fritters, also known as “goreng pisang.”
The Witness Speaks Out
The most distressing aspect of this story is that the patient’s daughter, Suchada Mali, was in the ambulance with her father when this incident occurred. She witnessed the driver’s abrupt decision to make a pit stop for a snack. Understandably, she was shocked and concerned for her father’s well-being.
Disturbed by what she had witnessed, Suchada Mali filed a formal complaint with the hospital. She wanted answers and assurances that this wouldn’t happen to anyone else.
Unfortunately, the hospital’s response to her complaint was less than satisfactory, leading her to seek public attention via social media.
The Power of Social Media
In today’s digital age, the power of social media is undeniable. Suchada Mali’s decision to share her father’s ordeal on various online platforms soon drew considerable attention. The incident began making headlines, putting the spotlight firmly on the ambulance driver’s actions.
As public outcry grew, the hospital could no longer ignore the situation. They launched an investigation into the incident.
It was revealed that the driver’s stop for the snack lasted a mere three seconds, but even such a brief delay was deemed unacceptable under the circumstances.
The Hospital’s Response
On the 16th of October, the hospital issued a statement, offering a timeline of events. They expressed their regret over the incident, making it clear that the stop for the snack was inexcusable, regardless of its short duration.
After a thorough examination, Sommai Thongkerd was admitted to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Fortunately, his condition improved, and he was discharged the following day.
The hospital also sent representatives to personally apologize to him and his family for the distress they had endured.
Images source: Thai PBS World and Melsj via Wikipedia Commons