Kid Barfs But Misses Bag

August 10, 2009

in Baby & Kid Stories

My story probably isn’t as bad as most. I had started out from Moscow, connecting through Vienna and then to Frankfurt, so I had already been flying for 5 hours. At this point I was on a 9 hour flight from Frankfurt to NYC, then was getting on a 6 hour connecting flight back to San Francisco. For people that really don’t like flying (like me) this was a miserable day to begin with, the “incident” only compounded the misery.

I was sat next to an unchaperoned kid (about 10 I’d say). One of those in-air care deals where the stewardesses look after him or something.

Anyways, the kid slept for the first 3 hours of the flight… but then he woke up and started shaking me, and making a motion like he was going to be sick. With 8 nieces and nephews I recognized the universal sign language for “I’m about to puke.”

So I sprung into action, desperately looking for the barf bag… which of course was at the very bottom of the pouch. Just as I was getting the bag open the kid barfed. I think I managed to get about 30% of it in the bag. The rest ended up on my arms, pants, shoes and of course all over both of our seats.

I called the stewardess over and got out of my seat to let her deal with it, while I went and cleaned up. I asked if there were any other free seats on the plane… but it was entirely booked.

The stewardesses had sympathy for me and I hung out with them in the kitchen for the remaining six hours of the flight. They were fun, and I had a good time talking with them… so the flight wasn’t a complete nightmare.

I know it wasn’t the kid’s fault, and I don’t blame him. It was just unlucky seating for me.

{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }

SAW August 10, 2009 at 3:23 pm

For you actually trying to help the kid, and recognizing that the situation was unavoidable, AND for not whining about it – KUDOS. A flight from hell nonetheless, apparently handled by a thoughtful adult. Hats-off gentleman, a gentleman (or a lady, I looked twice for a gender bias but couldn't find one

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anon August 10, 2009 at 9:04 pm

I'm amazed that people like the poster still exist. After seeing so many people complain and whine about the slightest thing, seeing someone take being barfed on by a sick kid in stride is refreshing.

Sometimes things happen that you can't control or change, thanks for showing others how to act in these situations.

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Hugh August 11, 2009 at 12:30 am

I echo the sentiments of the previous posters. Good for you, and remember, Karma has a way of paying back.

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anon August 11, 2009 at 11:14 am

You are a very nice person. :o)

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Jodi August 12, 2009 at 11:03 am

Ooo that poor kid, how lucky he was sitting next to you! Bravo for taking it so well. Your mom would be very proud.

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Atari August 12, 2009 at 8:07 pm

Can't say that it was a 'flight from hell' if all ended well. (All is well that ends well, The Writer said)

Nonetheless, interesting story, if a bit grotesque.

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Shamu August 28, 2011 at 2:31 am

Well done for helping the poor child. You would be annoyed but you had the respect and decency not to show it.

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