A Brit has been told he may never walk again after a holiday dive accident left him with devastating spinal injuries.
Ardi Balliu was enjoying a dream trip abroad when tragedy struck during a visit to a picturesque beach.
The 27-year-old construction worker had travelled with a friend and visited the popular cove of Calo d’es Moro in Santanyi while holidaying in Marbella, Spain, as reported by Need To Know.
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But moments after diving headfirst into the water, disaster struck.
When Ardi failed to resurface, his friend raised the alarm and desperately called for help.
Locals rushed to the scene and helped pull the injured Brit from the sea.
As he lay on the beach waiting for an air ambulance, Ardi reportedly told those around him that he could no longer feel his legs.
The accident left him with fractures to four parts of his spine, including his C1 vertebra.
The incident happened on 15 June and Ardi has remained in intensive care ever since.
His heartbroken family say doctors have warned there is little hope he will ever walk again and fear he may require breathing support for the rest of his life.
Medics are currently reducing his medication to allow him to regain consciousness and assess his ability to breathe independently.
If he is able to manage most of his own breathing, doctors are expected to fit a tracheostomy tube, which would help him breathe, eat, drink and communicate.
If not, further long-term respiratory support may be required.
A fundraising appeal has since been launched to help cover Ardi’s mounting medical costs and eventual journey back to the UK.
The GoFundMe page, set up by his cousin, has already raised more than £43,000 in just one week.
Ingrid Kaca said: “Ardi is a loving son and uncle to his little niece, a supportive friend and family member and a joy to be around.
“The medical team is doing everything they can, but the road ahead is going to be a long and challenging one.
“We are setting up this fundraiser to help Ardi and their family cover mounting medical expenses, travel and any aftercare that may he need.
“Any funds raised will directly relieve the financial stress on the family so they can focus entirely on being by Ardi’s side.
“If you are able to donate, no amount is too small. If you are not in a position to give financially, we completely understand.
“Please consider sharing this link with your friends, family, and social networks.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your love, support, and prayers during this time.”
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