A British father's dream holiday in Ibiza has turned into a nightmare after a tragic accident left him paralysed and fighting for his life in a Spanish hospital.
Tom Hilditch, 45, suffered catastrophic spinal injuries after jumping from a cliff into the sea on Friday, September 13th. The impact fractured his C5 vertebra, leaving him unable to move from the chest down and reliant on a ventilator to breathe.
The incident occurred at Cala Llentia, a popular spot known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky coves. What was meant to be a moment of holiday exhilaration instantly became a life-altering tragedy.
His devastated partner, Frankie Evatt, 32, is now by his bedside at Son Espases University Hospital in Palma, Majorca, where Tom was airlifted for emergency neurosurgery. She describes the agonising wait for news and the moment doctors delivered the devastating prognosis.
"They said the damage to his spinal cord is severe and he will be paralysed," Frankie told the Daily Mail. "He can't move anything. He can't feel anything. He's got a tube helping him breathe. It's just horrendous."
A Desperate Fight for Recovery
Tom, a self-employed carpenter and a beloved father, faces an unimaginably difficult road ahead. Medical professionals have indicated that his recovery, if possible, will be measured in years, not months.
His family is now grappling with the immense financial burden of his care. With complex repatriation costs and ongoing medical expenses, they have launched a desperate fundraising appeal, hoping to raise £100,000 to bring him home and secure the specialist treatment he needs.
The GoFundMe page, 'Help Tom Come Home', has been flooded with support from friends, family, and sympathetic strangers moved by his story.
A Family's Anguish
Frankie has spoken of her heartbreak, recalling the vibrant and active man Tom was just days ago. "He is the most amazing dad... he's our world," she said, her voice breaking with emotion.
She also issued a stark warning to other holidaymakers: "Please, please check the depth of the water. Don't jump. It's not worth it. Look at what's happened to us."
The Foreign Office has confirmed it is supporting the family and is in contact with local authorities in Ibiza.
