Video: Man who survived two heart attacks in Mexico comes home with help of Kings fans
A Sacramento man who suffered two heart attacks during a trip to Mexico is recuperating at home this week after fellow Kings fans rallied to help him and his family get back to the United States.
Marnie Marfil, a premium account manager who sells season tickets for the Kings, shared video on social media documenting her family’s return to Sacramento after her husband, 51-year-old Gerald Marfil, suffered two heart attacks in Cabo San Lucas. She tweeted: “Here is our journey home! #SacramentoProud.”
The Marfils returned last weekend after a long-awaited family vacation was interrupted by a medical emergency. Gerald Marfil, who works in law enforcement, had a heart attack in the lobby of the family’s hotel. He underwent emergency surgery at a nearby hospital, where he later suffered a second heart attack, this one even worse than the first.
The family incurred major medical expenses at the hospital and then learned the trip home would require nearly $40,000 for an air ambulance because a commercial flight would have been too dangerous due to Marfil’s condition. Marfil’s children started a GoFundMe campaign to help their parents handle mounting expenses.
Word got out through local media and social media. Upon hearing the family’s story, the Kings organization and the team’s fans were among many who made donations to help the Marfils get home. Kirsten Marfil, Marnie and Gerald’s daughter, thanked everyone for their support in an update on the GoFundMe page, which has generated 282 donations totaling more than $51,000.
“Thank you all so much for the prayers and support to bring our dad home,” she said. “Today my family made it back to the US safe and sound. Dad is still very tired and weak and will be resting as much as possible. We are so blessed to have so many people who care and love our family. We wouldn’t have been able to bring him home without all of you.”
Video of the family’s return to Sacramento shows medical personnel wheeling Gerald Marfil out of the hospital and transporting him to an airport, where he was moved into a waiting air ambulance.
The footage includes several captions reflecting the family’s emotions and gratitude.
“Thank you.”
“Daddy you did it.”
“Finally! We are heading back home to the United States.”
“We will miss our Mexico Family but can’t wait to see our family & friends ... and fluff babies.”
“So close now! All this possible because of the people in our lives that love us.”
“We are so proud of you for fighting for us.”
“We are with you Dad.”
“So many people made this possible. Forever changed our lives.”
“Tears of joy.”
“Thank you for all the love and support.”
This story was originally published August 5, 2022 at 5:00 AM.
