A British university lecturer has been left trapped in hospital in Greece following a horrifying quad bike accident while on holiday.
Chathurika Goonawardane, who teaches computer science students in Manchester, sustained serious injuries after plunging from a cliff while riding as a passenger on a quad bike on the island of Crete.
She is currently receiving treatment in hospital and has been informed she will be unable to walk or sit upright for several weeks.
Chathurika is unable to fly home to the UK as a standard passenger on a commercial flight and requires specialist medical transport while lying flat. Friends say the initial estimated cost of bringing her safely back to the UK starts from around £10,000, with a full quote still outstanding.
Friends are fundraising to cover the costs with over £3,000 raised so far. Those close to Chathurika say she has devoted years to helping and supporting others through her work at the university. She teaches computer science students, including final-year students working on dissertations and preparing to complete their bachelor’s degrees.
View 3 ImagesChathurika Goonawardane was on the back of a quad bike when she fell (Image: Jam Press)
Now, friends and colleagues are appealing for support to help bring her home so she can continue her recovery surrounded by those she loves. A statement on the fundraising page read: “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 went on to say: “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.”
View 3 ImagesThe Brit university lecturer stranded in hospital after horror quad bike cliff plunge in Crete(Image: Jam Press)
Friends are encouraging anyone who is unable to contribute financially to spread the word about the fundraiser amongst colleagues, students and the broader university community.
They further stated: “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.”