A Wyoming mother considers herself ‘lucky to be alive’ after allegedly receiving a ‘poisoned drink’ from a stranger on New Year’s Eve, according to local reports.
New Year’s Eve is often an occasion filled with celebrations and hopes for a better year ahead, frequently accompanied by alcoholic beverages.
While it might seem tempting to accept a drink from a stranger, Kailey Kline’s experience serves as a strong cautionary tale against doing so.
Kailey, 23, was celebrating the New Year with friends at the Silver Dollar Bar & Grill in Cody when she accepted a drink from someone she did not know.
According to KTBX, shortly after her fiancé picked her up and brought her home, Kailey began having seizures and foaming at the mouth within ten minutes.
Her fiancé called 911, and she was airlifted to St. Vincent Regional Hospital, where she spent several days sedated and on a ventilator.
Medical experts have determined that Kailey likely ingested antifreeze, a substance typically used as engine coolant, which is not meant for human consumption.
The sweet taste of antifreeze can make it hard to detect when it’s mixed with drinks.
In an interview with Cowboy State Daily, Kline’s mother mentioned that her daughter seldom goes out drinking and described her as ‘probably too trusting’ of strangers.
Amber Espinoza has stated that her daughter recalls the appearance of the man who gave her the drink, although the police have not yet identified any suspects.
The investigation is ongoing, with officials confirming that they are conducting interviews.
A GoFundMe campaign has been organized by Espinoza, who commended her daughter’s fiancé, Shawn, for his unwavering support.
“Shawn has been her rock! He’s stayed calm, humble and positive in such a chaotic situation,” Espinoza wrote.
“He showed up every day, and spent every visiting hour by her side. He fed and combed her hair when she was too weak to do it herself. He has the patience of a saint! Had it not been for his instincts to call an ambulance, this could have been a very different scenario.”
Fortunately, Kailey has returned home to her loved ones, but she faces a challenging recovery ahead.
She is prohibited from driving for three months as doctors monitor her seizure activity, and she will continue with physical and occupational therapy to assist in her rehabilitation.