June 6, 2006
Kimber’s family understands that you all are her friends and would like some information, to that end I have been given permission by them to make this single statement.
On Saturday June 3rd 2006 Kimber was on our dive charter off the dive boat Lois Ann to the wreck of the Hogan. After her second dive she surfaced, made her way on to the dive platform and informed the crew she was not feeling well.
The crew of the Lois Ann got her onto the deck and began immediate first aid treatment. We then got the boat secured and underway while calling in for assistance from the USCG and other local agencies. She was transferred to primary care within an hour or so of the incident and then taken to a hospital for evaluation, medical care and treatment.
She is still in the hospital and being well cared for. Her family which includes her mother, aunt, and her boyfriend are maintaining constant contact with her care givers, nurses, and physicians. .
Kimber suffered a medical emergency while on a dive boat and was evacuated; this is not a dive accident that needs to be analyzed at this time. It is out of respect for her medical privacy that the family does not wish to discuss her condition. Her family has asked that you keep the chatter on this to a minimum and focus your energies on having good thoughts for her speedy recovery. The community support as demonstrated by the wishes on this board is something simply incredible.
It's natural for all of us who are her friends to want as much information as possible, immediately. However, Kimber's family would appreciate some privacy during this difficult time. They ask that no flowers or gifts be sent to her and that no visitors are to come by. If there is more information that is needed to be released they will do it in due time.
In the meantime, I am focused on helping to properly handle the tremendous amount of administrative effort that follows any evacuation, in order to preserve the critical data.
Thank you for all your support and prayers for her speedy recovery.
Respectfully submitted,
[Edited by Doc to remove names.]