Bradley Belhomme, a 20-year-old from Salford, remains in a coma on a ventilator in an intensive care unit in Greece after a horrific quad bike crash. His family has provided a major update, stating they may be able to fly him home on a specialist medical flight costing over £40,000.
Details of the Accident
Bradley flew to Zante with friends on July 2, but the next day, July 3, he was involved in a collision with a coach while riding a rented quad bike. He sustained serious injuries and was initially taken to a hospital in Zante before being transferred to an ICU in Attica, Athens. His friend, who was also on the quad bike, was also hospitalized.
Medical Condition and Repatriation Plans
Over the past week, doctors have attempted to reduce Bradley's sedation and wean him off the ventilator, but these efforts have been unsuccessful. He has also developed pneumonia. His mother, Leanne Rabbetts, said: "We've had another update from the hospital. He still hasn't woken up. They've tried to pull him out but he still isn't breathing on his own."
Plans are being made to repatriate Bradley to Salford Royal Hospital, with the Greek hospital's agreement. However, the cost of a private air ambulance with medics is quoted at £41,000. Leanne explained: "Because he's still on a ventilator, he has to have the private air ambulance with the medics. We don't think he will have been insured because he was on the quad bike." She returned to Manchester to organize documents with the British Embassy, adding: "It's just about getting him home now so he can be cared for over here, and we have to fund that ourselves."
Fundraising Efforts
Friends and the local community have launched fundraising events and walks to help cover hospital bills and travel costs. An update on the fundraising page on Thursday stated: "Athens Hospital ICU have said it is in Bradley’s best interest to fly home but as you are all aware this costs more money we have to find another 12,000 pounds to reach our new target." The appeal continues, with the family pleading for help to reach their target.
