Latest news with #emergency surgery
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
I was dead for 2 minutes and I didn't want to leave — what I saw on the other side was beyond belief
A woman who was pronounced dead for two minutes revealed the shocking discovery of what she saw on 'the other side.' Nicole Meeuws was lifeless on a hospital bed, officially pronounced dead for two minutes, when she supposedly felt 'pulled' from her body and entered a tunnel of light where she was met by 'blue-skinned' beings, she told NeedToKnow. The 49-year-old artist was in the hospital after losing her baby and was rushed into emergency surgery, but, due to complications, she started to go in and out of consciousness. 'I found myself passing through a tunnel of blue and white light, not a beam, but a corridor that felt alive,' she said. Meeuws, who is from Greece, said that the light had a temperature and tone — 'almost like music made of water' — and she entered a glowing space with 'luminous' colors such as silver, soft violets and deep radiant blues. 'It didn't feel frightening; it felt like I was being called home,' she said. 'The chamber was vast, larger than any earthly structure, and everything pulsed gently like a heartbeat,' she added. 'And then I saw them.' Meeuws revealed that she was greeted by 'blue-skinned' beings with human faces, similar to the characters in 'Avatar.' 'Two towering beings seated on marble-like thrones, shimmering with energy. Their eyes were large and indigo, filled with kindness and recognition,' she said. 'They looked human, but had gentle gills on their cheeks. I remember seeing their fish-like tails, rather than legs, covered in scales.' 'They were both male and female intertwined and didn't speak in words – but I understood everything they had to tell me,' Meeuws added. She said she didn't understand their language, but the Avatar-like figures allegedly made her feel at home and telepathically communicated with her that life is actually an illusion and we start to live when we die. Meeuws also said they told her that she wasn't meant to have children and rather she was given the gift to teach people about 'the other side.' 'I felt more known than I had ever felt in my life; I didn't want to leave,' she noted. 'I understood this place, this feeling, and I truly believe it was the original home from which we all come from.' 'I learned that death is not an end, it's a return to our actual lives,' Meeuws added. After the minutes she was pronounced dead, Meeuws was 'zapped' back into her body, and when her husband, Christos, 65, tried to speak to her, she communicated in a high-pitched tone in an 'unfamiliar' language. 'It sounded like dolphin clicks. It continued for minutes, which left everyone around us stunned. But I couldn't stop it – it was coming through me, not from me,' Meeuws said. 'My senses were heightened and I could hear emotion in people's voices as color. I returned completely different; almost reborn,' she added. Meeuws hasn't had any near-death experiences since the incident, but she said she has visions of the blue-skinned figures often. She believes they are non-alien creatures from the Apkallu interdimensional tribe, also referred to as Demigods, that allegedly have given civilization to mankind. According to Meeuws, the mission given to her by these blue beings is to spread the message that 'love is stronger than death.' 'Love will always win; it's where we came from. We're all one big family, regardless of boundaries, cultures, religion and politics. Everything that exists came from the same spark,' she said. 'The more we hold onto fear, hate and lies, the easier it is to control humanity.' 'To create heaven on Earth, we must spend each day spreading love. I'm no longer afraid of death because I know what's waiting for me on the other side,' she noted. 'It was a beginning, not an end.' Solve the daily Crossword
Daily Mail
17-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Jim Kelly reveals newborn grandson has emergency surgery after being born with 'unexpected medical complications'
Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly has revealed that his newly-born grandson underwent successful emergency surgery after 'unexpected medical complications' following his birth. The former Bills star announced on Instagram earlier this week that his daughter, Erin and her husband, Parker had recently welcomed their first child, and asked for prayers with 'Little Bean' set for a procedure. Kelly later shared on Tuesday that his grandson - whose name he has not yet revealed - was set to undergo the surgery at 7am on Wednesday. And thankfully, the 65-year-old was able to share with fans afterwards that 'everything went well' as his grandson embarks on his 'healing journey.' 'We are overwhelmed with gratitude for God's hand in every detail today… for highly skilled and compassionate doctors and nurses… and for every single prayer that's been lifted on our behalf,' he wrote on Instagram. He continued: 'But this is just the beginning — and we humbly ask you to PLEASE KEEP PRAYING as the healing journey begins. 'Our continued prayer is that Little Bean's body will begin to heal and adjust to all that took place this morning… that his body will strengthen… and that, in time, he'll be able to come off the ventilator and be able to go home.' While Kelly has not disclosed what medical complications his grandson has endured, he previously said that 'this road has brought us to our knees.' The five-time Pro Bowler received a flood of well-wishes on the latest post, including from former teammates Thurman Thomas and Andre Reed. 'GOD is GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD........ Continued Prayers for little Bean,Erin,Parker and the whole Kelly Family,' Reed wrote. Kelly has also had significant health battles himself in retirement. He was initially diagnosed with oral cancer in 2013, and later had part of his jaw removed. The disease returned in 2014, while he had to undergo a 12-hour surgery in 2018 to remove a new cancer from his jaw and neck. Kelly has ultimately battled the disease a total of four times, and last year celebrated 10 years since his final radiation treatment.
Arabian Business
14-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
UAE pet insurance: Is it really worth it? Experts weigh in
A single emergency surgery can cost pet owners up to AED 12,000 in the UAE, yet fewer than one in ten pets are insured despite growing demand over the past two years, according to insurance experts. With over 1.5 million pet owners in the country and veterinary costs rising, industry experts say the market is poised for transformation as more expat residents seek financial protection for their animals. 'In the past two years, we've seen a noticeable increase in demand for pet insurance among UAE residents. More pet parents, particularly expats, are now exploring coverage options for their furry companions,' Divya Mandke, Unit Head – General Insurance & Personal Properties at told Arabian Business. UAE pet insurance: What are the different types? However, Mandke explained that while pet insurance is still not widely adopted in the region and remains a relatively niche segment, 'education and awareness continue to be key drivers in this space.' The UAE's pet insurance market penetration currently sits in single digits, contrasting with mature markets where coverage rates reach 30 per cent in the UK and over 80 per cent in Sweden, Jonathan P Cooper, MD & Founder of MooPet Cover, WIS Group Ltd added. And due to a growing 'pet parenting' culture in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, demand continues to rise. But what are the different types of pet insurance in the UAE? 'Most UAE pet insurance policies fall into two categories: accident-only or comprehensive (accident + illness),' Cooper told Arabian Business, adding that comprehensive plans typically include: Veterinary fees for illness or injury (consultations, diagnostics, surgery, meds) Prescription food or supplements (if medically required) End-of-life care Third-party liability (for dogs) Death or loss benefits Boarding fees if the owner is hospitalised Optional overseas travel coverage While comprehensive medical coverage forms the foundation of most pet insurance policies in the UAE, these pet policies include veterinary consultation fees, diagnostic procedures including tests and X-rays, medications, surgical procedures, and veterinarian-prescribed prescription diet food, Mandke added. Different pet breeds in UAE have different premium rates However, insurance providers apply different premium rates based on breed-specific risk factors, she revealed. Breeds such as French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, English Cocker Spaniels, Samoyeds, Akitas, and Dobermans face higher premiums due to predisposition to health issues. Some breeds, including the American Bully, face outright exclusions from coverage. When pets face severe illness or injury, coverage extends to veterinarian-recommended euthanasia and associated cremation costs, Mandke said. 'Additional benefits may include compensation for loss due to theft or if the pet strays, as well as coverage for advertising and rewards for pet recovery. For dog owners, third-party liability is a key feature, providing coverage in the event of property damage or personal injury where the pet owner is found legally liable,' she added. Echoing the sentiment, Cooper added 'large breeds (e.g., German Shepherds) and brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) tend to have higher premiums due to known health risks like respiratory issues or joint problems. Older pets may face enrolment limits – for instance, many plans restrict new signups to pets under 8 or 10 years old.' Moreover, most UAE insurers cover only cats and dogs, with exotic pets like rabbits, birds, or reptiles typically excluded from eligibility, he said, adding that government-banned breeds cannot be insured. So, what should pet owners look for when comparing different insurance providers? According to MooPet Cover's Cooper, key factors include: Coverage scope (accident vs. illness) Annual limits (e.g., AED 5,000 vs AED 30,000) Reimbursement rate and deductibles Exclusions and waiting periods Network flexibility (can you use your preferred vet?) Claim turnaround time and transparency Extras like liability, travel, or boarding cover How to claim your pet insurance Standard pet insurance policies exclude routine care including vaccinations, dental cleaning, grooming, and preventative treatments. However, insurers partner with veterinary clinics to offer policyholders discounted rates for these services. The claims process requires pet owners to submit completed claim forms with medical summaries, vaccination records, pet medical history, veterinary invoices, and pet photographs, Mandke explained, adding insurers typically process claims within 3 to 5 working days when documentation is complete. 'Unlike some other markets, the UAE currently does not offer accident-only coverage as a standard product. Instead, insurers here generally focus on providing comprehensive plans that address a broad range of risks, including illness, accidents, and related medical expenses. This approach simplifies offerings but also limits options for pet owners seeking budget conscious or limited scope plans,' she added. Moreover, most UAE pet insurance operates on a reimbursement model where owners pay veterinary bills upfront before submitting claims, Cooper added. Digital submissions via email are increasingly common, with some providers offering direct billing at select clinics. However, 'all pet insurance providers must be licensed by the UAE Central Bank, which oversees all insurance activity since absorbing the Insurance Authority in 2021,' he said. 'While there are no pet-specific laws yet, general insurance regulations apply – covering licensing, solvency, fair marketing, and claims handling. If a dispute arises, consumers can escalate complaints to the Central Bank's Consumer Protection Department,' Cooper added. Should you self-fund veterinary care for your pets or take pet insurance? Both experts also advised that pet insurance proves more financially viable than self-funding veterinary care, particularly for high-risk breeds or emergency situations. Single major medical procedures or emergencies can exceed annual premiums, making coverage a financial safeguard. 'Self-funding works if your pet stays healthy – but vet bills in the UAE can be steep. A single emergency surgery can cost AED 8,000-12,000. Studies show that insured pets are far less likely to be euthanised for financial reasons,' Cooper explained. 'In many cases, pet insurance proves to be more financially viable than self-funding, especially when dealing with high-risk breeds or sudden health complications. A single major medical procedure or emergency can often exceed the annual premium, making coverage a prudent financial safeguard. While some pet owners may consider self-funding for pets with minimal health concerns, the potential for unexpected expenses makes this approach riskier,' Mandke echoed. The UAE pet insurance market is expected to undergo transformation with increased awareness and growing pet ownership among young professionals and expats, with both industry experts expecting more comprehensive and customisable products, potentially including wellness and dental coverage. 'We anticipate the rollout of more comprehensive and customisable products, possibly including wellness and dental coverage. Additionally, the integration of digital claims processing and stronger collaborations between insurers, vets, and pet service providers will elevate the role of pet insurance from a nice-to-have to a standard part of responsible pet ownership,' Mandke said. 'We expect strong growth and product innovation. More providers will enter, and we anticipate greater plan variety from budget to ultra-premium, wellness add-ons for routine care, app-based claims and faster reimbursements, tele-vet access and digital tools,' Cooper added. 'Pet insurance isn't just about protecting your wallet – it's about making sure your pet gets the best possible care without delay. Insurance is ultimately an act of love: it means you're prepared to give your pet the care they deserve, no matter what,' he concluded.
South China Morning Post
13-07-2025
- Health
- South China Morning Post
China worker suffers severe chest pain, refuses surgery, doctor pays US$4,200 for treatment
A doctor in southern China paid 30,000 yuan (US$4,200) out of his own pocket to cover the medical bills of a patient who refused to undergo emergency surgery because of the cost. The incident unfolded in Dongguan, Guangdong province on June 30, when a migrant factory worker, surnamed Zhang, felt a searing pain in his chest and back while he was working, the Guangzhou Daily reported. After Zhang, 38, arrived at a hospital in Xiegang Town, Dongguan City, doctors diagnosed a serious cardiovascular disorder. A doctor from the cardiovascular department, Lu Jiongbin, told Zhang that he needed immediate surgery and that there was a 60 per cent possibility that he would die otherwise. But Zhang refused to have the operation or to be hospitalised, saying he just wanted to go home to his village in Shaanxi province, northwestern China. After Zhang had the potentially life-saving surgery, his family travelled to the hospital to thank the doctors. Photo: 'I do not want to receive any treatment. If I die, it is fine,' he told medical staff.
