Hello, my name is sarah and I’m asking for help for our young grandson, James, who has suddenly become very unwell while on a family trip to Thailand.

James travelled with his parents on what was meant to be a special 5 week trip. They believed they had medical insurance in place, but devastatingly, when they needed it most, they discovered a mistake had been made with the dates, leaving them covered for just one day. The insurance company has now refused to help, leaving my family to face these overwhelming costs alone.

Towards the end of their trip, James became very ill. He developed a high temperature that lasted through the night and into the next day, along with red spots that turned into painful pimples. Unsure if it was chickenpox or something more serious, they took him to a hospital in Krabi. He was sent home with antibiotics and creams for what doctors believed was a bacterial skin infection.

Sadly, James’ condition worsened. His temperature climbed dangerously high reaching 41°C and after another long night with no improvement, his parents rushed him back to the hospital.

Just 30 minutes after arriving at the emergency room, James suffered a seizure lasting 3 minutes.

Doctors worked urgently for around 30 minutes to stop the seizure and stabilize his breathing. It was a terrifying experience for his parents. After this, they were told James may have chickenpox with sepsis, and possibly bacterial meningitis. He needed immediate tests, including a CT scan and a lumbar puncture, and was admitted to intensive care.

Initial results have ruled out some conditions, but tests have shown an infection, and doctors are still waiting to confirm whether bacterial meningitis or chicken pox are present. These results will take several days. In the meantime, James must remain in ICU receiving treatment for both conditions.

The financial situation has quickly become overwhelming. For just one night in hospital (18/04/26–19/04/26), the bill has already reached 231,570 THB (around £5,300) far exceeding the original estimate they were given. Doctors have advised that James will need to stay in intensive care for at least 4–5 days, bringing the expected total to £15,000 or more.

With no insurance coverage, my daughter and son in law are being asked to pay thousands upfront while trying to stay strong for their son.

They are also caring for their 10 week old baby, Riley, in the same room. They feel alone, scared, and under immense pressure, but they cannot risk leaving the hospital as James is still very poorly and needs urgent care. They have also had to take out a new insurance policy for the family incase Riley catches the infection whilst here.

We know times are difficult for everyone, and we don’t ask lightly but any support you can give would mean the world to our family. Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward James’ medical care and help ease this unimaginable burden so his parents can focus on what matters most: helping their little boy recover.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page. Your kindness, support, and prayers are deeply appreciated and will never go unnoticed.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read James’ story.