The family of an Australian tourist who was struck by a horrific illness during a bucket-list trip overseas are desperately fighting to bring her home.
After Maud O’Brian, 58, was diagnosed with cancer, she booked a three-week cruise from Queensland to Hawaii with her husband Paul.
A week after the cruise, she came down with the flu and was medically evacuated from the ship to Tahiti.
Her condition rapidly deteriorated and she was diagnosed with ‘severe pneumonia’.
Ms O’Brian’s daughter Ashleigh Stothard has set up a GoFundMe to cover her mother’s medical bills and flights home after insurers refused to cover her due to her pre-existing cancer.
After Maud O’Brian, 58, was diagnosed with cancer, she booked a three-week cruise from Queensland to Hawaii with her husband Paul.
A week after the cruise, she came down with the flu and was medically evacuated from the ship to Tahiti, where she was diagnosed with “severe pneumonia.”
She provided an update on what she described as an “incredibly challenging” time for her family, saying it has taken its toll.
“My mother was taken to the main island hospital in Papeete, where her health took a nosedive, and we feared for her life,” she said.
“Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, mother’s condition was critical and all she wanted was to return to Australia.”
Ms Obrien’s family sought quotes for an intensive care ambulance flight back to Mackay, which ranged from $185,000 to $500,000.
A few days later she was cleared to fly home, but while she was on board something went wrong.
“Mum’s condition became life-threatening and she almost didn’t survive the journey,” Ms Stothard said.
‘The situation was dire, but the medical team on board helped stabilize her.
“Mum is currently in Auckland, New Zealand, receiving the care she urgently needs.”
After a difficult start, Mrs O’Brian began making progress at Middlemore Hospital, where her family say she is being well cared for.
“The hospital staff in Auckland were wonderful,” Ms Stothard said 7News.
‘Not just to mum, but to dad too, and make sure he has a place to sleep next to her – we want to thank them for their kindness and support.’
Ms O’Brian’s family are facing significant medical costs, including a hospital bill of around $60,000, as well as other costs such as taxis, food and accommodation.
Ms O’Brian began making progress at Middlemore Hospital in New Zealand, where her family say she is being well cared for
Magpies Sporting Club, where she and her partner both work in Mackay, has appealed for anyone who can donate.
“This unexpected situation has placed a significant emotional and financial burden on their family. As medical costs pile up and distance increases pressure, they turn to our community for support,” they wrote on Facebook.
‘Their deepest wish is to return Maude home, where she can receive the comfort and care she truly needs, surrounded by the love of her family and familiar surroundings. However, the costs associated with her treatment, ongoing care and possible medical evacuation are overwhelming.
‘This is where your kindness and generosity can make a world of difference. Every contribution, regardless of size, will go directly towards covering Maude’s medical costs, travel arrangements and any necessary accommodation for her recovery journey.”
To date the family has raised more than $16,000, and Mrs Stothard said everyone’s support and well wishes have brought them comfort.
“When people have your back, it gives you faith in humanity, and it certainly helped,” she said.
‘Your continued support is vital during this difficult time. Your donations, prayers and well wishes have brought us hope and comfort during Mom’s recovery.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, generosity and compassion.”
Mrs O’Brian’s family know she has a long road ahead of her but hope she can return home soon.