A tragic incident unfolded in Oludeniz, a resort town in southwest Turkey, when a British teenager was struck by a paraglider while enjoying a meal with her family. Fifteen-year-old Lily Nichol from Durham was injured on what was meant to be the final day of their holiday, leaving her in need of urgent medical care.
Lily’s mother, Lyndsey Logan, recounted the distressing moment when the paraglider “came from nowhere” as they dined at a restaurant. The sudden impact rendered Lily unconscious, prompting an immediate outcry for help from her mother.
“I thought she was dead,” Ms. Logan expressed, reflecting the sheer panic of the situation.
Following the accident, it was revealed that Lily suffered multiple severe injuries, including a broken jaw, a split tongue, and four fractures in her spine. Additionally, she sustained a gash above her eye and damage to several teeth. Although doctors initially feared serious head trauma due to a brain bleed, subsequent scans confirmed no significant head injuries.
The Nichol family faces an overwhelming financial challenge as they navigate Lily’s medical needs. Without travel insurance, they are responsible for all medical expenses incurred thus far—totalling £7,200—with future surgeries estimated to cost an additional £45,000.
Ms. Logan expressed her despair over their financial situation:
“We do not have the money for this surgery,” she stated, noting that they are racing against time with surgery scheduled for Monday.
To alleviate some of the financial strain, Lily’s family has initiated an online fundraiser aimed at covering medical costs.
The psychological impact of the incident has also been profound. Lily reportedly experienced confusion following the accident and described her memories as if she were “having a dream.” She has since endured distressing nightmares related to the event.
Lyndsey reflected on her own trauma and that of her other daughter, Megan, who also suffered a concussion but escaped with less serious injuries:
“I’m absolutely traumatised… I’ll never forget this day.”
In light of this harrowing experience, the family has been in contact with the British Embassy in Turkey for support during this challenging time.
As medical costs continue to rise and emotional healing begins, the Nichol family’s ordeal underscores the unpredictable nature of travel and its potential hazards. Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safety and preparedness while abroad.
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