A tragic incident in Tennessee has left a family heartbroken, as a man passed away within 48 hours of contracting a dangerous bacteria while visiting Florida. This story serves as a sobering reminder of the hidden dangers that can lurk in warm coastal waters. Dave Bennett, a father and grandfather, was enjoying a visit to see his daughter when he was unexpectedly struck down by a flesh-eating bacteria, a rare but deadly infection.

His daughter, Cheryl Bennett Wiygul, took to social media to share the painful loss and warn others about the serious risks of this potentially life-threatening condition. She described her father’s rapid decline after being exposed to Vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria often found in saltwater, particularly in warmer months. She shared her heartache, urging everyone to take these infections seriously, despite how unlikely they may seem.

“Flesh-eating bacteria might sound like an exaggerated story or even something out of a horror movie, but let me tell you, it’s very real,” Cheryl wrote in her post. “I never wanted to talk about it because it’s so personal, but if my story can help even one person, then it’s worth it.”

Dave Bennett, who had been battling cancer, was already in a compromised state when he traveled to Florida to spend time with his daughter. The visit was meant to be a peaceful family reunion. Cheryl recalled that the weather was beautiful, and everyone was enjoying time together near Crab Island, a popular spot known for its clear waters and sandy shores. It was a typical, enjoyable day, and there seemed to be no cause for concern.

However, Cheryl’s mind was recently occupied by news of a case involving a young girl who had contracted a similar infection. She had heard of a child who had developed necrotizing fasciitis, also known as the flesh-eating disease, after stepping into contaminated water with a small cut on her leg. While the story unsettled her, Cheryl didn’t want to believe it was a real threat. She was looking forward to having her parents visit and, as a precaution, made sure to apply extra care when they came to Florida.

“We love spending time in the water,” she explained. “So when the news about the young girl started circulating, I couldn’t help but be worried. But I tried to push those fears aside, especially after the local county released a statement downplaying the risk. They said the bacteria in question had only been a problem for people with open wounds, so I thought we’d be fine.”

Cheryl took extra steps to ensure her father’s safety. She made sure his skin was protected from the sun and applied antibacterial ointment to any small scratches he had before they went near the water. She thought they were taking the right precautions, and that the risks of contamination were minimal.

Unfortunately, the bacteria still found a way into her father’s body. Just hours after their trip to the beach, Dave began feeling unwell. At around 4 a.m. on Saturday, he woke up with chills, a fever, and intense cramping. Within hours, the symptoms worsened. His skin began to darken in certain spots, and his legs became increasingly painful. By the time his condition became critical, it was too late. Dave was rushed to the hospital, where doctors immediately administered IV antibiotics in an attempt to stop the infection. Despite their best efforts, the infection spread rapidly, and by Sunday, Dave Bennett had passed away.

Cheryl was devastated, unable to comprehend how quickly the situation escalated. “There were no warnings or advisories for high bacteria levels at the beach or any of the parks we visited,” she noted. “Had there been any indication that the water was unsafe, I would never have allowed my father to go in. I didn’t think it would kill him, but I worried he might catch a stomach bug. I didn’t know this was even a possibility.”

The loss of her father has left Cheryl heartbroken, and her message about the dangers of Vibrio vulnificus has sparked an outpouring of support from others who have experienced similar tragedies or have simply been moved by her words. She expressed gratitude for the time they had together, even in the face of such sorrow. “I will always cherish this last week with him,” she wrote. “But it’s hard to accept that he’s gone.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirm that Vibrio bacteria, including Vibrio vulnificus, are most commonly found in warm coastal waters. These bacteria thrive in areas with higher water temperatures, especially between May and October. While infections from these bacteria are relatively rare, they can be devastating for individuals with weakened immune systems or open wounds. The CDC reports that Vibrio causes around 100 deaths annually in the United States, making it a significant health concern for anyone spending time near the ocean during warmer months.

In the wake of her father’s death, Cheryl’s story has reached a wider audience, and her warning about the dangers of flesh-eating bacteria has resonated with many. Though her experience was tragic, she hopes that by sharing her father’s story, she can prevent others from suffering the same fate. “I never thought something like this could happen to us, but now I know it’s real,” she said. “Please take precautions, and be aware of the risks when you’re around water.”

As families across the country continue to enjoy vacations and beach trips, it’s important to recognize that certain risks exist, even if they are not immediately visible. Infections from Vibrio vulnificus are rare but deadly, and understanding the warning signs and how to minimize exposure could save lives. Cheryl’s message serves as a powerful reminder that even in paradise, there are hidden dangers that deserve attention and respect.

Her family’s loss is deeply felt, and their story serves as a call to action for greater awareness about the potential hazards in coastal waters. By spreading the word and being more mindful of the risks, others may avoid the heartache that Cheryl has endured.