In a tragic incident that unfolded in February 2022 on the shores of Maui, 64-year-old Ray Johnson lost his life in a snorkeling accident that his widow, Patti Johnson, claims could have been prevented with proper warnings about the risks associated with snorkeling soon after flying. Ray Johnson, a Michigan native and an experienced snorkeler, died from what was officially ruled as drowning. However, the circumstances surrounding his death suggest a more complex medical phenomenon known as Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema (ROPE), often described as “drowning from the inside.”
Patti Johnson, through her lawsuit against the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Hawaii Visitors Convention Bureau, argues that her husband’s death was not a straightforward case of drowning. According to Jay Stuemke, Patti Johnson’s attorney, Ray experienced severe breathing difficulties that did not align with typical drowning. He managed to alert a friend and struggled towards the shore but unfortunately collapsed and died on the beach.
ROPE occurs when a snorkeler’s lungs suddenly fill with fluid, impeding their ability to breathe and leading to severe hypoxia. This condition can be triggered by various factors, including the physiological impacts of recent air travel, which is prevalent among tourists visiting Hawaii. A state Department of Health Snorkel Safety Sub-Committee study suggests waiting at least three days after flying before snorkeling to significantly reduce the risk of ROPE, a precaution based on how high-altitude flights can affect lung function.
The Johnsons had just flown into Hawaii and were unaware of the potential dangers when Ray decided to snorkel. If they had known about the risks, Patti contends they would have postponed their snorkeling plans. The lawsuit criticizes local tourist authorities for not making these dangers more widely known, especially given the documented risks and available studies.
From 2012 to 2021, there were 184 tourist deaths related to snorkeling in Hawaii, compared to 20 local residents, highlighting the disproportionate risk to visitors. The tragic event and subsequent lawsuit underscore the need for better awareness and education on the specific health risks associated with popular tourist activities like snorkeling, particularly in destinations frequented by long-distance travelers.