5 people, including 2 children, who survived nearly 100 days adrift in the Pacific Ocean, ate turtles and birds and drank rainwater to stay alive, according to a report by The New York Times. The survivors, who were stranded on a small boat after setting out on what was supposed to be a one-hour journey between islands in Micronesia, also endured the loss of 4 family members during the ordeal.
However, after a days-long search effort was called off, the family remained stranded at sea. During the ordeal, the family waved at passing ships and aircraft in the hope of being rescued, but their attempts went unanswered. The surviving relatives were forced to throw their bodies overboard. The US Coast Guard also expressed relief after learning that five people had been found alive. “We are extremely relieved to hear that five individuals were found and are receiving care based on media reports. After the family went missing, Arthur Irons II, an official from Chuuk in Micronesia, informed the federal government, leading to a search by the US Coast Guard.
As the days passed, 4 members of the group, including a child, died. By November 2, the survivors were showing signs of recovery, according to a report by PEOPLE. Earlier reporting noted: The passengers included 31-year-old Tedwinson Paul and eight younger family members.
Arthur Irons II, an official from Chuuk, the Micronesian state from where the family had departed, said he had informed the federal government about their disappearance, prompting a search operation by the US Coast Guard. They survived by eating turtles and birds and drinking rainwater, according to the outlet. Nursing officer Paukin Tororo said they were gradually regaining their strength. “They can move their head side by side,” Tororo said, adding, “They can give a smile face, they show the sign they want to eat. We extend our profound condolences for those who are still missing,” the Coast Guard told PEOPLE in a statement. Earlier reporting noted: According to reports, all five survivors were suffering from malnutrition and severe dehydration.
Meanwhile, Alexander Narruhn, the governor of Chuuk, confirmed on Sunday that he had begun discussions with the Kiribati government to arrange the survivors’ return home.
