Utah toddler rescued from critical illness in Uruguay via 18-hour medical jet
A three-year-old Utah girl suffering organ failure in Uruguay was air-lifted to Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, where she is now recovering.
While on vacation in Uruguay, three-year-old Estelle Santiago became critically ill with hemolytic uremic syndrome, leading to heart failure, kidney failure and a brain bleed. After her family’s desperate pleas, Intermountain Health’s Transfer Center coordinated a complex international medical evacuation, securing permits and insurance in just days. The Bombardier Challenger 604 jet, equipped for intensive care, flew from Montevideo to Salt Lake City with Estelle’s parents and sister aboard, navigating a storm before landing safely.
Upon arrival, she was admitted to Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital, where she remained for several weeks in intensive and rehabilitative care. Doctors praised both the Uruguayan team’s efforts and the Utah crew’s expertise, noting the successful transport as a milestone for the health system. Estelle is now expected to make a full recovery and has expressed gratitude to her rescuers.
Why it matters
The story shows how coordinated international medical transport can save lives in extreme emergencies.
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