Family Seeks Answers After Paignton Man Dies Following Cruise Illness
A family is demanding answers after a Paignton man died from norovirus contracted on a cruise ship last year
Paignton, Norovirus, Cruise, Alan Forster, P&O Arcadia, Canada
Paignton: An investigation is underway after a 77-year-old man died from norovirus while on a cruise. Alan Forster, a retired teacher, was on the P&O Arcadia with his wife, Dianna, when he fell ill.
They set sail from Southampton in September last year. About two weeks into the trip, Alan started experiencing severe gastric symptoms. He was taken to the ship’s medical bay a week later and put on a drip.
After the ship docked in Canada, Alan was transferred to a hospital. Sadly, he passed away on October 16 from suspected kidney failure. The CDC confirmed a norovirus outbreak on the ship.
P&O Cruises has launched an investigation into the situation. Dianna and their sons, John and Iain, are seeking answers through lawyers at Irwin Mitchell.
Nearly 100 passengers reported similar symptoms, and many were quarantined. The family claims they did not receive timely medical help despite raising concerns about Alan’s condition.
Jatinder Paul, the family’s lawyer, expressed concern over the rapid decline in Alan’s health. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the cruise ship’s medical response.
The cruise lasted from September 3 to October 3. Alan is survived by his wife, two sons, and four grandchildren. Dianna shared that they were excited for the trip, having been on 47 cruises before.
She recalled how Alan rarely complained, so when he did, she knew it was serious. Despite announcements about norovirus, they faced delays in getting help.
Dianna described the traumatic experience of being quarantined and trying to get assistance for Alan. She never imagined she would lose him, even when their son flew over to help.
She expressed her grief and the pain of losing her loving husband. Dianna now seeks answers to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
P&O Cruises stated they were saddened to hear about Alan’s death and are reviewing the situation. They will respond to the family’s solicitors after the investigation.