The family of David Hartley are not only coping with the sudden loss of the 28-year-old, but face a crippling bill to bring his body back to the UK after his death in Turkey
A three-year-old girl has been left without a dad after a young father died in his sleep on a family holiday to Turkey.
David Hartley, 28, never woke up after going to bed on the trip to Antayala last week. His heartbroken relatives revealed that the had sleep apnoea and a heart condition. David, from Gateshead, Tyneside, had no travel insurance and with the sudden and unexpected nature of his death, the family have now been left with a huge bill to bring him home.
His loved ones are desperately trying to raise enough money so he can be brought back to the UK and laid to rest. Despite the trauma, they have been given some good news after kind-hearted well-wishers pledged almost £10,000 to ease the financial burden.
In just one day, almost £8,000 had been donated to the GoFundMe page set up by his cousin Megan and the total is growing all the time. The cost of a body repatriation to or from the UK typically ranges from £3,000 to £6,000, though costs may be higher for more distant locations.
She said: “He was only 28 years old and leaves behind his beautiful three-year-old daughter, along with a heartbroken family and so many friends who loved him dearly.
“This is an unimaginable loss for our family. In the space of just three years, we have lost David’s grandma, his mum, and now David himself. Our hearts are completely broken.
“David had sleep apnoea and a heart condition. He went to sleep while in Turkey and, tragically, never woke up. As David’s passing was so sudden and unexpected, he did not have travel insurance.
“We are now faced with the heartbreaking reality of having to raise a substantial amount of money to bring him home to the UK. Until these costs are covered, we cannot bring David back to his family, where we can finally lay him to rest and give him the funeral and farewell he truly deserves.
“We are asking, from the bottom of our hearts, if anyone is able to donate, no matter how big or small, to help bring David home.”
The family have been overwhelmed by the amazing response from people across the nation with over £9,000 now raised, as reported by NeedToKnow.
Following the response to the fundraiser, Megan added: “We are absolutely overwhelmed. In just one day, almost £8,000 has been raised for David.
“We truly cannot believe the kindness, generosity, and support that has been shown. This incredible support is making such a huge difference.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Our family will be forever grateful for the love, compassion, and generosity of you all.”
To donate, visit the GoFundMe page here.
