Calum Macdonald's trip to Laos took a dark turn when he experienced disturbing vision changes after consuming free alcoholic drinks at a popular hostel. The 23-year-old and his friends didn’t recognize that his kaleidoscopic sight and subsequent blindness were symptoms of methanol poisoning. After arriving in Vietnam, he realized he was completely in the dark—literally—after mistaking his condition for food poisoning.
Calum is speaking out about his experience, which is part of a tragic trend—six people died from similar incidents linked to methanol-laced drinks in Laos last November. He personally knew two victims, which has deepened his resolve to raise awareness surrounding the dangers of illicit alcohol in Southeast Asia.
Another victim, Simone White, had no idea that a night of free shots would lead to her tragic death days later. Her mother recalls the harrowing call she received from a doctor urging her to make a decision about brain surgery, ultimately too late to save Simone.
Methanol, often found in cleaning supplies, is far more toxic than ethanol, which is the standard alcohol in beverages. Poorly made spirits can be laced with methanol, leading to symptoms that mimic hangovers, thus making it hard for victims to realize they’ve been poisoned until it’s nearly too late.
Calum’s story highlights the critical importance of caution while traveling. He advises future tourists to steer clear of free drinks and encourages them to opt for local beers instead, emphasizing that life can change in an instant. The Foreign Office has acknowledged the serious risks of methanol poisoning and is working to ensure travelers are aware of these dangers.
As he adjusts to life without sight, Calum aims to empower others with his story while honoring the memories of those he lost.
Calum is speaking out about his experience, which is part of a tragic trend—six people died from similar incidents linked to methanol-laced drinks in Laos last November. He personally knew two victims, which has deepened his resolve to raise awareness surrounding the dangers of illicit alcohol in Southeast Asia.
Another victim, Simone White, had no idea that a night of free shots would lead to her tragic death days later. Her mother recalls the harrowing call she received from a doctor urging her to make a decision about brain surgery, ultimately too late to save Simone.
Methanol, often found in cleaning supplies, is far more toxic than ethanol, which is the standard alcohol in beverages. Poorly made spirits can be laced with methanol, leading to symptoms that mimic hangovers, thus making it hard for victims to realize they’ve been poisoned until it’s nearly too late.
Calum’s story highlights the critical importance of caution while traveling. He advises future tourists to steer clear of free drinks and encourages them to opt for local beers instead, emphasizing that life can change in an instant. The Foreign Office has acknowledged the serious risks of methanol poisoning and is working to ensure travelers are aware of these dangers.
As he adjusts to life without sight, Calum aims to empower others with his story while honoring the memories of those he lost.
