Thai cave rescue tragedy: the one who didn’t get out
The Thailand cave rescue mission has come to a dramatic end, after an almost week long rescue attempt.
As of July 10th, twelve members of the Thailand soccer team and their coach were safely pulled out of Tham Luange Cave.
The world eagerly awaited the rescue of the final two left in the cave - the last boy and their 25-year-old soccer coach.
Speaking exclusively to WHO, Seven News Chief Reporter Chris Reason revealed 'mainstream media had reported the parents have seen the boys. But they have not been able to touch them hold them, hug them, kiss them… all the things the parents and the boys would want to do.'
At this stage, 'The eight boys brought out by divers over the previous two days are in 'high spirits' and have strong immune systems because they are soccer players, a senior health official said. Doctors were being cautious because of the infection risk and were isolating the boys in the hospital.
Chris Reason also revealed that the mental fortitude of the terrified boys aged between 11 and 17 was largely due to coach Ekapol Shantawon, 25, a Buddhist who helped keep them calm during their two weeks in the cave.
'He taught them meditation and was using those techniques inside and that was apparently really helping the boys deal with their fears in those conditions.'
Despite the massive efforts to save 13 lives, the event did take a tragic turn as former Thai Navy Seal Petty Officer Saman Gunan, who volunteered for the rescue mission, tragically passed away.
The 38-year martyr died after losing consciousness on his way out of the cave where he had been delivering air tanks.
In an emotional interview, Mr Gunan's family revealed how they were preparing for life without him.
Speaking to the BBC, his wife Waleeporn Gunan and father Wichai Gunan spoke about their loss.
'Everyday before we left for work, we said we loved each other,' Mrs Gunan said.
'Everyday before we left for work, we said we loved each other.'
Mrs Gunan told the BBC that her husband loved helping others.
'He has been praised as a hero for who he was...I want to tell you honey, you are the hero in my heart, you always were and always will be.
Wichai Gunan said he was sad but proud.
'My beloved son, may you rest in peace.'
Our thoughts are with Mr Gunan's family and loved ones.
