MN couple stranded in Costa Rica after ATV accident

11:49 AM, Feb 14, 2012   |    comments
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ANOKA, Minn. - An Anoka couple is stuck in Costa Rica after an all-terrain adventure landed one of them in the hospital.

Ron and Elissa Merritt are desperately trying to get back to the U.S. where their health insurance will pay for treatment. But, they say it will likely cost $30,000 for a medical flight home.

The couple had taken ATVs up one of Costa Rica's scenic mountains, but Elissa was cut off on a road, fell 75 feet down a cliff and suffered severe injuries. With their health insurance worthless in Costa Rica, the hospital initially wanted $5,000. Ron turned over his credit card.

The next day the hospital demanded more money than the Merritts could provide. Family members say they will hold a fundraiser Saturday to try to help pay for a medical flight home.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. )