She cannot return to the UK as a standard passenger on a commercial flight
A British university lecturer has been left stranded in hospital after a horror quad bike accident while on holiday. Chathurika Goonawardane, who teaches computer science students in Manchester, suffered serious injuries after falling from a cliff while riding as a passenger on a quad bike.
She is currently being treated in hospital and has been told she will be unable to walk or sit upright for weeks. As a result, Chathurika cannot return to the UK as a standard passenger on a commercial flight and requires specialist medical transport while lying down.
Friends say the initial estimated cost of bringing her safely back to the UK starts from around £10,000, with a full quote still pending. Over £3,000 has been raised so far.
The funds raised will go towards specialist medical transport and medical care during the journey. Those close to Chathurika said she has spent years 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. Now, friends and colleagues are asking for support to help bring her home so she can continue her recovery surrounded by loved ones.
A statement on the fundraising page said: “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 added: “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.”
Friends are urging anyone unable to donate to share the fundraiser with colleagues, students and the wider university community.
They added: “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.”
