A British university lecturer remains stranded in a hospital in Crete following a severe quad bike accident that has left her unable to walk or sit upright for weeks. Chathurika Goonawardane, a computer science lecturer at a Manchester university, suffered serious injuries after falling from a cliff while riding as a passenger on a quad bike during a holiday.
Injuries and Medical Situation
Ms. Goonawardane is currently receiving treatment in a Cretan hospital. Medical professionals have informed her that she will be unable to walk or sit upright for several weeks. Due to her condition, she cannot return to the UK as a standard passenger on a commercial flight. Instead, she requires specialist medical transport that allows her to lie down, with appropriate medical care throughout the journey.
Fundraising Efforts
Friends have launched a fundraising campaign to cover the costs of her safe return. The initial estimate for specialist medical transport starts at approximately £10,000, though a full quote is still pending. So far, over £3,000 has been raised. The funds will be used for the medical transport and necessary medical care during the journey.
A statement on the fundraising page reads: "Chathurika has spent so much of her time helping and supporting others. Now, very sadly, she needs support herself. While on holiday in Crete, Chathurika was involved in a serious accident during what should have been a normal quad bike ride. She was a passenger on the quad bike when she fell from a cliff and is currently in hospital in Crete."
The statement adds: "Because of this, she cannot return to the UK as a standard passenger on a commercial flight. She needs specialist medical transport and must be transported lying down, with appropriate medical care during the journey. These costs need to be covered privately, which is why we are asking for support."
Call for Support
Friends and colleagues are urging people to donate or share the fundraiser with the wider university community. Ms. Goonawardane teaches computer science students, including final-year students working on dissertations and preparing to complete their bachelor's degrees. Her supporters hope to bring her back to the UK so she can continue her recovery surrounded by loved ones.
They added: "Any donation, no matter the size, would mean so much. We are asking for help to bring Chathurika safely back to the UK so she can continue her recovery closer to home, with the support of those around her."
