Stephanie Inglis: Scottish judo star in coma after Vietnam motorcycle accident

Inglis was injured after falling from the motorbike taking her to work at a school 

Heather Saul
Friday 13 May 2016 08:15 BST
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Stephanie Inglis was in Vietnam teaching English
Stephanie Inglis was in Vietnam teaching English

Athletes and sports stars are leading an appeal for funds to pay for the medical costs of treating Stephanie Inglis, a judo star who is “fighting for her life” after a motorcycle crash in Vietnam.

The Scottish Commonwealth Games silver medallist was injured after falling off the back of a motorcycle which was taking her to work, sustaining serious head injuries.

Inglis, who was teaching English as part of an internship in Vietnam, is now being treated in the intensive care ward of a Hanoi hospital.

A GofundMe page launched by fellow athlete Khalid Gehlan has raised over £75,000 in nine hours.

The page says Inglis’ travel insurance has expired and medical care is costing £2,000 a day. A number of athletes are now sharing the appeal and urging people to donate.

“For all those that have had the privilege and pleasure of being in Stephanie's company, you will know what a positive, kind-hearted and caring person she is,” the GoFundMe page reads. “And for all those that haven't, just know that if you stole her last penny, she would smile at you and wish you all the best.”

Inglis’ sister Stacy said she is in a coma, describing her state as “very critical”. Both of her parents have flown out to be by her bedside.

Inglis's sister Stacey told the BBC: “Mum and Dad are just distraught - they just want her to be alive and get back here.

“She is in a coma. I don't really know what is going to happen. There has been a lot of bleeding to the brain and swelling.

JudoScotland said it was “shocked and saddened” by the news.

“Steph was a valued member of the JudoScotland Performance Squad prior to her retirement and a leading member of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games team, adding to Scotland's medal count with a silver medal (under 57kg).

“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at JudoScotland are with Steph and her family at this difficult time.”

The Foreign Office said in a statement: “We are in contact with the family of a British national who has been hospitalised in Vietnam, and will continue to offer support at this difficult time.”

Additional reporting by Press Association

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