A Calgary couple’s dream vacation before the holiday season turned into a tragic ordeal when the husband, Glenn Boyd, drowned while scuba diving in Mexico. His wife, Christine Boyd, has been stuck in Mexico for three weeks fighting to get her husband’s ashes and death certificate to bring him home. The process has been complicated by bureaucratic delays and a hefty fee of $6,500 to release his ashes.
Christine Boyd refuses to leave Mexico without her husband’s ashes, despite the mounting fees for accommodation and last-minute flights. The family has relied on the generosity of others, including a successful GoFundMe campaign that raised $16,000 in just four days to help cover the costs. Christine’s daughter, Meagan Grabst, has been working tirelessly to navigate the bureaucratic processes and ensure her mother can return home.
Initially, both Expedia and WestJet, the companies involved in booking the trip, were unable to offer assistance without a death certificate. However, as the story gained public attention, both companies stepped up to help. Expedia offered a refund for Christine’s return trip ticket and WestJet is arranging for her flight back to Calgary at no cost. Both companies expressed their condolences to the family during this difficult time.
Travel experts suggest that comprehensive insurance can help cover unexpected costs in situations like these, while contacting the embassy can assist in navigating processes in a foreign country. Despite the tragic circumstances, Grabst and her family are grateful for the support they have received from the community, both in Calgary and in Mexico. They emphasize the importance of the people on the ground who have helped them through this challenging experience.
As the bureaucratic nightmare continues, Christine remains in Mexico awaiting the release of her husband’s ashes. The family is hopeful that with the assistance of both Expedia and WestJet, as well as the support of the community, they will be able to bring Glenn Boyd home and begin the healing process. The family sees this tragic experience as a learning opportunity and emphasizes the importance of having support networks in place during times of crisis.
