Tragic paraglider crash leaves British teen in critical condition
Dramatic scenes unfolded in the Turkish resort of Ölüdeniz when a paraglider unexpectedly struck 15-year-old Lily Nichol from the United Kingdom during a family meal. The teenager sustained severe injuries and is currently in hospital, fighting for her life. The accident happened on the final day of their holiday. The girl's sister posted a moving message online.
On Friday, 8 November, Lily and her family went for lunch at a restaurant in Ölüdeniz, a popular holiday resort in Turkey. Unexpectedly, during the meal, a tragic incident occurred at the restaurant – a paraglider suddenly fell and hit the girl.
Lily's mother, recalling the moment in an interview with the BBC, spoke about the shock the whole family experienced. - I was just screaming, crying for help. I thought she was dead— the distressed woman confessed, describing the moment she saw her daughter unconscious on the floor.
Severe injuries of the 15-year-old
The impact of the paraglider resulted in Lily sustaining severe injuries that require intensive treatment. The teenager has a broken jaw, a split tongue, and multiple spinal injuries – in four different places.
Additionally, her eye and teeth were damaged, and doctors diagnosed brain bleeding. Although the bleeding is not life-threatening, the other injuries are severe and require prolonged hospitalisation and treatment.
Older sister also injured. She posted an appeal online
In the same incident, 19-year-old Megan, Lily's older sister, also suffered injuries after being struck by the falling paraglider. Fortunately, Megan's injuries were less severe, though she momentarily lost consciousness.
After initial examinations, doctors confirmed that she does not require intensive care. The girl immediately posted a heart-wrenching appeal online.
This girl right here is not only my little sister but also my life long best friend. (...) I just wish there was something more we could do watching her in crippling pain day in and day out is killing me and not only that but seeing how strong our mam is trying to be she’s a true rock and inspiration really, I just want our little girl back home — Megan wrote.
Treatment costs exceed family's means
The family found themselves in a difficult financial situation because they did not have travel insurance that could cover Lily's medical expenses. The girl's mother admitted to the media that so far, expenses have exceeded €8,500, and this sum is steadily increasing.
In the face of high costs, the family decided to launch an online fundraising campaign to raise money for further treatment and rehabilitation of their daughter.
