Probst noticed a competitor from a rival tribe, Joe Hunter, 45, showing concern for Erickson in the emotional moment. Hunter and Erickson started the game on the same tribe but were separated in Episode 4. Usually contestants from competing tribes are not allowed to physically interact, but Probst broke with protocol.

As an emotionally distraught Erickson struggled to compose herself, Probst signalled for fellow contestant Joe Hunter to go over and comfort her. Hunter, a 45-year-old fire captain, was the one castaway Erickson had told about her autism, and so he knew the methods to help calm her down, including hugging her tightly and holding her hands.