Family Races to Bring Ill Mother Home from Turkey for Surgery

A family is urgently seeking to bring their mother, Gill Taylor-Scarth, back to the UK after she fell seriously ill while on holiday in Turkey. The 56-year-old, who was diagnosed with a large brain tumour just weeks after the death of her husband, Kevin Scarth, in December 2022, now faces a critical situation following a rapid decline in her health during the trip.

The family had traveled to Hisaronu on August 15, 2023, for a two-week holiday that Kevin had planned before his passing. Gill, who had previously received medical clearance for travel, initially appeared to be in good health. However, she soon began experiencing severe headaches and balance issues, prompting her daughter, Sophie Taylor, to seek medical assistance while they were abroad.

Sophie described the events leading to their decision to seek help: “She was fine for the first few days, but then she started complaining of a headache. By Saturday [August 23], she was really unwell and couldn’t keep anything down.” After consultation with hotel staff and a local doctor, Gill was taken to a private hospital, where doctors recommended surgery due to the critical nature of her condition.

The family made the difficult decision to move Gill to the public Antalya Hospital, located three hours away from Hisaronu, as they believed it to be in her best interest. Unfortunately, communication barriers arose, as the hospital staff spoke little English, complicating the situation further. “The hospital in Turkey is telling us they need to operate, but nobody speaks English, and my 17-year-old sister is having to deal with everything alone,” Sophie explained.

Gill’s condition is dire, with doctors stating that surgery carries a high risk of mortality and the possibility of complete paralysis due to the tumour’s location near her brain stem. The family is desperate for Gill to return to the UK for treatment at The Walton Centre, where she had been receiving care prior to the trip. Sophie stated, “We just want to get her home. I don’t want her to die here in Turkey.”

To facilitate Gill’s return, they are exploring the option of a medevac flight, which specializes in rapid medical transport. However, the cost of such a service is around £50,000, a significant financial burden for the family. In response, Sophie has set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for the flight and any associated medical costs.

As the family navigates this challenging ordeal, they are hopeful for Gill’s recovery and a safe return home. Donations to support their efforts can be made through the GoFundMe page.