A nightmare scooter accident during a couple’s anticipated Philippines vacation has led to severe injuries, including a ruptured spleen and fractures, disrupting their plans. Daniel Guz, 49, and Julia Sek, 45, had meticulously arranged a two-week journey across the Philippines as an early birthday celebration for Daniel’s upcoming 50th birthday in April.
Hailing from St Ives, Cambridgeshire, the couple had arranged flights and designated Palawan Island as their initial destination. Unfortunately, on March 5, merely two days into their trip after arriving, tragedy struck while they were exploring El Nido on a scooter. The scooter skidded, causing them to slide over 50 meters off the road.
Both Daniel, a lorry driver, and Julia, a printer, were swiftly transported to a hospital in Manila, the capital, due to the severity of their injuries. Daniel sustained a ruptured spleen, a broken leg, and hip, while Julia suffered fractures in both arms. They are currently undergoing multiple surgeries with an uncertain timeline for their return to the UK.
Reflecting on the accident, Daniel recounted the moment of losing control due to sand or oil on the road, leading to the unfortunate crash. Despite the ordeal, the couple remains grateful for surviving and being together, emphasizing the importance of the second chance they’ve been given.
Their plans to explore El Nido’s scenic lagoons and cliffs were abruptly halted as they encountered the slippery patch that caused their scooter to veer off the road unexpectedly. After skidding through grass, rocks, and stones, they narrowly escaped a collision with an electricity post, with locals and Filipino soldiers rushing to their aid.
Transported to a local hospital in the village, the couple had to undergo additional transfers throughout the day due to the inadequacy of the local medical facilities to handle their critical injuries. Eventually, they were taken to St Luke’s Medical Center, where thorough assessments revealed the extent of their injuries, necessitating surgeries for both Daniel and Julia.
While their medical expenses are covered by insurance, the couple anticipates the need for private physiotherapy and further treatment upon their return to the UK. A GoFundMe campaign initiated by their friend Monika aims to support them during their rehabilitation process.
Daniel, known for his charitable endeavors in the UK, expressed uncertainty about their return to work and the likelihood of requiring extended physiotherapy. They are in communication with the Polish Ambassador to facilitate their repatriation to the UK, emphasizing the challenges they face in the aftermath of the unforeseen accident.