June Redman, 75, from Middlesbrough, remains in intensive care at the Ahu Hospital in Marmaris, Turkey, after developing sepsis and pneumonia during a family holiday. Her daughter, Lisa Appleyard, has described the ordeal as a "living nightmare" as the family struggles to cover the cost of bringing her home.
Medical crisis after a fall
June, known to her family as Nanna Noonie, was admitted to hospital with dangerously low blood pressure just days after tripping on a step at the hotel on the first day of her holiday. She struck her head and sustained two cuts to her arm. After being examined by the hotel's doctor and nurse, the family was assured she did not need hospital care.
However, on the day of their scheduled return, June became severely ill. An ambulance was called as her blood pressure had plummeted. At the hospital, doctors discovered her kidneys were functioning at just 8% and she had developed sepsis. A week later, she contracted pneumonia and was placed in an induced coma. She has since undergone a tracheotomy and is showing signs of recovery.
Insurance shortfall leaves family unable to pay
Lisa was advised to prepare for the worst, but June has now regained consciousness. The family wants to arrange her repatriation to Middlesbrough for continued treatment, but their travel insurance will only cover 21.28% of the costs, leaving £31,500 outstanding for an air ambulance.
Lisa explained that the insurer refused full coverage because her mother allegedly failed to disclose certain elements of her medical history, including a COPD diagnosis that the family says they were unaware of. June had taken out cover with Goodtogo Travel Insurance. A spokesperson for the parent firm, Ancile Insurance Group, said: "Due to the complexity and ongoing nature of Mrs Redman's case, we cannot comment on the details of the claim. We are working with Mrs Redman's family to ensure the claim is resolved, and will continue to offer them support and assistance."
Family appeals for help
June's family has raised £7,000 so far, including just over £2,000 through an online fundraising page set up by her granddaughter Claire. "What was meant to be a family holiday has turned into an incredibly frightening and uncertain situation for our family," Claire said. "If you know June, you will know how much she means to our family. She is our Noonie, and we just want to give her the best possible chance of coming home."
Lisa urged others to learn from their experience. "We desperately need help," she said. "It's horrendous. An absolute living nightmare. We are in no position whatsoever to cover the rest of these costs. We need to warn people, don't ever get yourself in this position - I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy."
