There is positive news after a family was lost at sea several months ago. Australia’s ABC station reports five people, including two children, are alive and receiving medical attention three months after disappearing. They embarked on a short trip and quickly lost their way, sparking nationwide attention and a widespread search.
The family drifted approximately 5,400 kilometres (3,355 miles) to a secluded island in Kiribati. After a harrowing journey and several months on the open water, they have been rescued.
There are still many unknowns about the dangers they faced, but the government has expressed gratitude for their rescue in the meantime.
The Missing Boat Was Only Meant to Be Gone for One Hour
What was supposed to be a one-hour boat ride this summer turned into a months-long nightmare for a group of nine people. The ABC reports the group left on July 30 and were only supposed to go between the islands of Murilo and Ruo in Micronesia. A storm quickly changed the situation and blew the boat off course.
The US Coast Guard in Micronesia lent aid to the search. After 10 days, they managed to cover 25,000 nautical miles, but failed to get any concrete results. They suspended the search on August 9.
After months without any updates, villagers on Fanning Island saw the boat drifting on November 2. They rescued five survivors on board. Each was extremely malnourished and dehydrated, but still alive. The survivors received prompt medical attention and are recovering. A pastor on Kiribati is reportedly caring for the family.
“They can give a smile face, they show the sign they want to eat,” nursing officer Paukin Tororo told ABC.
Though the United States Coast Guard was unable to turn up results during the rescue mission, the agency expressed gratitude for a positive turn.
“We are extremely relieved to hear that five individuals were found and are receiving care based on media reports. We extend our profound condolences for those who are still missing,” the Coast Guard issued an official statement to PEOPLE.
The Survivors Still Have Yet to Detail Their Experiences
So far, the survivors have not publicly spoken about the incident and ask for privacy while they navigate the recovery. The Micronesian government has been in touch with the survivors and are hoping to bring them home safely very soon.
“There were nine people aboard the boat that went missing. Thanks be to God for his love and mercy that five of the nine people have been found,” Chuuk State Governor Alexander Narruhn said in an official statement. “We continue to pray for their four companions.”
Australia’s ABC reports there isn’t yet any public information available regarding the four missing people.
Missing Family Turns Up in Kiribati After Three Months Adrift at Sea