S
Sean Coerse
We left for our week long cruise on July 25th. We were headed to the Rapahanock from Little Creek Norfolk on our H240. On board were my wife, 4 year old daughter and 7 year old son. The wind was 10-15 with 2-3 foot seas. It was overcast, but the forcast was calling for smaller seas and lighter wind as the day progressed. Everyone was excited to be leavig for a week. About 3 miles out my wife noticed that my son wasn't joining in on the songs that we were singing. When he wouldn't respond to her she turned him around. My son was in a siezure. This was very alarming as he has never had one before. I gave my wife the tiller and she quickly turned around heading back to Little Creek. I put out a Mayday for a medical emergency which was quickly answered by Coastguard Norfolk. My son came out of the seizure and was very scared. A Norfolk Police Marine Unit was in Little Creek and responded quickly. Within 10 minutes my son and wife were on the police boat headed for a waiting ambulance. My son was released from the hospital 2 days later and diagnosed with Benign Rolandic Epilepsey. It's treated with medication, and he should outgrow it. The purpose of this is to encourage everyone who sails to have a VHF on board that operates, and to know how to use it. I know too many "Day Sailors" that don't cary a VHF. One in particular states that they are only needed by cruisers.We salvaged an overnight trip on the boat this weekend. The doctor approved it, and I didn't want my son to equate his illness with sailing or the water. We had a greate time in one of our favorite anchorages.My son took it all in stride enjoying the police boat ride and the two ambulance rides. He was promised another ride by the Norfolk Police when he is better able to enjoy it.I have nothing but good things to say about the prompt response from the Coastguard and the Norfolk Police. Next time you get boarded by your local police or Coastguard try not to be to critical. They are doing a job that keeps us all safe.Good sailing to all the Coerse's