Mark Dicky, a US scientist who was part of the team consisting of 4 US, 4 Turkish, 4 Romanian and 1 Hungarian citizens, was conducting research in Morca Cave, in Mersin under the organization of the Anatolian Speleology Group Association (ASPEG). On September 3rd, Dicky experienced severe stomach bleeding at a depth of 1,040 meters, prompting his teammates to notify the authorities for assistance. The response teams from Türkiye, Croatia, Italy, Bulgaria, Hungary and Slovenia were swiftly dispatched to the scene for evacuation. Turkish NGOs also joined the rescue efforts.
Upon contact with the rescue teams, Dicky initially reported taking medication and feeling well, withdrawing his request for help. Nevertheless, the rescue teams maintained their efforts as a precautionary measure. Professional cavers, including medical personnel, were deployed to the area. Medical experts descended to Dicky’s location, and treatment commenced at a depth of 1,040 meters, including a transfusion of four units of blood. Dicky responded positively to the treatment. With his weakness resolved, the team initiated their efforts to safely exit the cave.
On the other hand, Dicky’s latest situation was also seen by the rescue teams who entered. It was reported that Ümit Günhan and Ekrem Özihtiyar from the Turkish cave rescue team, together with the Hungarian Team, reached the sick Dicky at minus 140 meters after leaving food at the -500 camp in the cave and his latest condition was checked. It was stated that the descending team returned to the surface after the necessary communication, logistic support and control of the patient’s condition were provided.