A Maryland woman’s dream vacation turned into a medical nightmare after she suffered a stroke while traveling home from Guatemala.
Kalin Rytina, 28, from Carroll County, Maryland, was returning from an international trip with her boyfriend when she began feeling dizzy, nauseous and confused during a layover in Panama.
Her symptoms quickly worsened, and she was rushed to a hospital for emergency treatment. Doctors later determined that she had suffered a stroke.
According to her family, doctors found blood clots in arteries in the back of her neck leading to her brain. Those clots caused the stroke and left Kalin hospitalized far from home.
Kalin spent several days in intensive care before being moved to a private room. Her father, Mike Rytina, and sister, Madi Rytina, flew to Panama to be by her side as the family worked to understand her condition and arrange a safe return to the United States.
The situation has been especially difficult because Kalin’s hospital in Panama reportedly has not accepted her health insurance. Her family said medical costs have already climbed to around $45,000, with more expenses expected.
A fundraiser created by friends and family says Kalin will likely need intensive rehabilitation as she recovers from the stroke. The fund is also helping cover ICU care, travel for family members and medical transport.
Her family said Kalin has shown signs of progress. Recent updates said she has been able to sit up, move around, eat solid food, take medication orally and participate in physical therapy.
Scans also reportedly showed that brain swelling had slightly decreased, with no signs of hemorrhage or hydrocephalus.
Doctors have discussed transporting Kalin back to the United States by medevac. Her family has said she may be able to return soon, depending on her condition and travel arrangements.
The story has touched people across her Maryland community. Neighbors, friends and strangers have donated to help cover the cost of her care and bring her closer to home.
Kalin’s family described her as strong, compassionate, funny and deeply supportive of the people around her. They also said the situation has been emotional because Kalin normally helps care for her disabled mother at home.
What began as a joyful trip filled with adventure has now become a long road to recovery. For her family, the priority is simple: getting Kalin safely back to the United States and helping her rebuild after a life-changing medical emergency.
