Hero of the cave rescue operation in Thailand battles severe pneumonia.

Experienced diver in hospital

According to The Sun: British diver Vernon Unsworth, once called a 'pedo' by Elon Musk, is battling severe pneumonia seven years after his remarkable rescue of 12 Thai schoolboys from a cave.

The 70-year-old Unsworth was urgently admitted to Me Chan Hospital in Thailand due to sudden breathing difficulties.

The cave expert, who gained world fame during the Tham Luang cave crisis in 2018, has been struggling with his health since September 22.

Doctors placed him in intensive care and intubated him for several days, using powerful antibiotics.

Fortunately, his temperature has decreased and blood pressure is stable, but he is still receiving oxygen under close medical supervision.

This week, a video emerged showing members of the royal family, local officials, and military visiting his room with gifts.

They informed Unsworth that he was granted 'patient under royal patronage' status, meaning the King of Thailand is covering his medical expenses.

“They are gradually reducing my oxygen. I had a chest X-ray.”

“Weather conditions affected Thailand. The rain did not help me.”

Unsworth was only able to speak for a few minutes before resorting to his phone to express his thoughts.

His wife, Voranarat Ratrawiphukkun, expressed gratitude for the support.

“Vernon was in serious condition, but he is getting stronger.”

“His Majesty the King accepted Vernon as a patient under royal patronage.”

The hospital staff reported that he is comfortable but tires quickly. One nurse noted: “Although lying in bed, he looks comfortable, speaking for long or going to the bathroom can be difficult.”

HEROIC DIVER

Unsworth's health struggle continues seven years after one of the most famous rescues in modern history.

In July 2018, heavy monsoon rains trapped the 'Wild Boars' soccer team and their coach, who remained in the Tham Luang cave.

Unsworth, an experienced expert familiar with the cave's hazardous passages, participated in the rescue along with an elite international team, including Thai Navy SEALs and divers, who brought all 13 out alive after two weeks underground.

However, his heroism was overshadowed by a public feud with Elon Musk.

When Musk offered a 'kid-sized submarine' for the rescue, Unsworth dismissed the idea as a PR stunt, telling CNN the billionaire could 'stick his submarine where it hurts.'

Musk responded by tweeting: “Sorry, pedo guy, you actually did ask for it.”

Subsequently, he continued to hurl insults in an email to a reporter, calling Unsworth a 'child rapist.'

This defamation campaign inflicted serious psychological trauma on Unsworth, and he shared his feelings on 'Good Morning Britain' in 2019.

“He aimed to destroy me. Psychologically I am strong, but inside I am soft.”

“I felt degraded, dirtied, ashamed.”

Unsworth filed a defamation lawsuit in Los Angeles, accusing Musk of 'bullying' and seeking $190 million in damages.

Musk apologized but claimed the insult was a common South African expression.

In 2019, a jury sided with Musk, leaving Unsworth with significant legal expenses.

Despite the tough legal battles and psychological burden, Unsworth received an MBE and continues to be respected in Thailand.

The situation with Unsworth underscores how important support is during difficult times, especially concerning the health of prominent individuals. The patronage from the King of Thailand is an additional mark of recognition of Unsworth's heroism, and the hope for his speedy recovery is shared by many.

It remains to be seen how his health condition evolves and what further developments will arise from this story that stunned many around the world back in 2018.