Zak Forsyth, 21, from Huyton suffered extensive injuries when his scooter collided with a car in Thailand – his family have been left struggling to cover his huge medical bills ever since
The family of a Scouser battling for his life in Thailand following a scooter accident has provided a “remarkable” update regarding his condition. Zak Forsyth, 21, was riding the scooter when it smashed into a car earlier this month.
His girlfriend Amy Elkin, 21, revealed that Zak, from Huyton, sustained “extensive” injuries in the collision, leaving his family to cover medical expenses as he had no travel insurance.
Amy has now provided an update on his progress through a fundraising page, which has so far raised almost £40k stating: “Zak’s progress has been remarkable, especially considering how close we came to losing him.”
Amy explained how treatment has “successfully reduced the swelling on his brain slightly”, with additional medication converting blood clots that Zak had formed into fluid, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Amy said this as a “positive development.”
Amy, who travelled to Thailand to support Zak on February 9, commented: “Although Zak still has a long road to recovery ahead, he continues to make progress each day. I have never been prouder of someone in my life.
“Whilst this update is positive, the hospital has made it clear that his condition could still change, depending on how his brain responds and heals. As expected, Zak is in significant pain and is receiving very strong medication to manage this.”
Amy outlined Zak’s injuries, explaining his face was “severely damaged” with multiple facial bones fractured.
She revealed he has subsequently undergone complete facial reconstruction to restore his eye sockets, cheekbones, jaw and nose. Amy revealed that metal plates have been fitted, and that Zak’s jaw has been wired shut to aid the healing process.
She described Zak’s facial injuries as being “on a positive path to recovery”.
She went on to say that Zak has had a tracheotomy and is now breathing on his own, having previously been put on a ventilator, explaining: “Many people have also asked about medical bills. Unfortunately, medical care abroad begins charging the moment you enter the hospital and continues until discharge.
“Costs increase daily simply for being admitted, in addition to charges for medication, surgery, ICU care, scans, blood transfusions, and all other treatments. Nothing is provided free of charge. We have also had to travel across the world to be by Zak’s side.
“We are struggling with the ongoing medical costs, especially as every bill is marked as an estimate, meaning there is no fixed or final price.”
Amy continued: “We continue to need as much support as possible to help Zak regain strength before we can bring him home to Liverpool. We would be extremely grateful if people could continue sharing the JustGiving page, as we do not know what tomorrow may bring.
“If Zak’s condition worsens and surgery becomes necessary, the hospital will demand immediate payment before proceeding. This has been one of the most distressing experiences for our family, with staff standing in his ICU room with a card machine.”
Amy revealed her boyfriend was sober and travelling on a scooter when it smashed into a car. The motorist rushed him to hospital, but Zak has sustained severe and potentially life-altering injuries.