A 24-year-old British man remains in intensive care in Turkey after suffering a severe spinal injury while diving into a hotel pool on the final day of his holiday. William Ponter underwent a 13-hour emergency surgery after breaking his neck in the accident on September 3, leaving him paralysed from the neck down, according to medical reports.
The incident occurred at a hotel pool in Antalya, where Ponter was on holiday with his partner, Rebecca Francey, 27. Francey stated that Ponter attempted a belly flop into the pool before failing to resurface. She pulled him from the water, and he immediately told her he could not move. An ambulance was called, and Ponter was rushed to a local hospital before being transferred for specialist treatment.
Ponter’s C4 vertebra was removed during surgery due to concerns over potential stroke risk. Doctors have confirmed he will require long-term care, though the timeline for his recovery remains uncertain. His family has since travelled to Turkey to support him.
Fundraising and financial concerns
Francey has launched a crowdfunding campaign seeking £150,000 to cover medical expenses, repatriation costs, and home modifications. Ponter did not have holiday insurance that would cover his treatment or return to the UK. Francey described the situation as a life-altering event, stating that the accident occurred just one day before their planned departure.
Medical response and recovery outlook
Doctors reported that the surgery was high-risk and that Ponter’s age may have contributed to his ability to undergo the procedure. He is currently breathing independently but remains in intensive care. Francey noted that hospital restrictions limit visits to 15 minutes, and Ponter’s condition continues to be monitored closely.
Support from strangers
Francey recounted that two German men assisted in transporting her to the hospital and contributed to covering the €4,000 initial medical costs. She expressed gratitude for their help during the emergency.
Family presence and next steps
Ponter’s family has arrived in Antalya to assist with his care. While medical teams have not provided a timeline for his stability or potential transfer, Francey stated that the priority is ensuring he receives the necessary treatment and support for his recovery.