Tom, I read and re-read your story three times to make sure I didn't miss anything.
First: Thank you for being one of those people that can actually be relied upon in case of emergency. You did a great job of putting yourself out there to assist others in need, and are to be commended for doing so.
Now, I must vent.
How, in gawd's name, do you not notice your child is starting to show signs of AMS/dehydration/acute illness ?!?!?!?!?!?!?
In my line of work, it's my job to pick up on the minutae. I know I do that with my climbing/hiking/skiing/whatever partners as well. A lot of times it might be overkill, but those that come out with me also know that if there isn't a giant smile across my face, something must be wrong. This is a CHILD we're talking about here. YOUR child. The life you are charged to protect.
Some might say that they have seen rapid onset of violent symptoms. I say bullshit. Signs appear gradually, even nonverbals. It's the accumulation of the small signals that lead to the tipping point, and, say, the kid is vomiting every five minutes. And he had been like that for 12 hours????
There is no excuse for ignorance: too much information is available, in too many places. I'm REALLY glad you guys didn't let him sleep longer.
In brief: Tom, you are a hero in the truest sense. This father should be beaten soundly about the head and shoulders with a nailed 2x4.
...
The other possible victim in this is the lion. I hope it moves on quickly and quietly, because I could see it ending badly if it lurks in such close contact to so many people.
