Mother in Critical Condition After Fall in Tenerife Hotel Incident

Emma Hickey, a 42-year-old mother, is currently fighting for her life following a tragic accident during a family holiday in Costa Adeje, Tenerife. The incident occurred on June 23, 2025, when Hickey, visiting the popular vacation destination with her partner Stephen Brougham and their two children, fell down a staircase at their hotel. The family had embarked on a 12-day holiday on June 13, but their trip took a devastating turn after Hickey sought medical attention for severe mosquito bites.

Despite her discomfort, Hickey was determined to enjoy the vacation for the sake of her children, Sophie, 13, and Bobby, 7. On the day of the accident, Hickey experienced dizziness and collapsed while descending the stairs to visit a nearby pharmacy. Her partner, Brougham, described the fall as 'horrific,' recalling how she convulsed on the steps before being rushed to the hospital.

Medical examinations revealed that Hickey suffered from a brain hemorrhage and neck fractures, resulting in her being placed in a medically induced coma. Brougham, a self-employed plasterer from Dublin, expressed his anguish over the incident, stating, 'It's been a living nightmare.' He is currently facing significant financial strain as the family's health insurance has yet to cover the escalating medical costs.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established by a family friend to assist Brougham and the children during this challenging time. The funds raised are aimed at helping the family afford their stay in Tenerife, as they remain uncertain about when Hickey will be stable enough to travel home. Brougham stated, 'We need to be over here by her side, and we don’t want to go anywhere without her.'

The situation has raised concerns about the importance of comprehensive travel insurance, particularly in light of Hickey's unexpected health crisis. Brougham noted that they were unaware of the potential dangers posed by mosquito bites, emphasizing the need for travelers to be vigilant about insect-related health risks while on holiday.

In light of this incident, experts emphasize the necessity of travelers securing extensive health insurance and remaining cautious about insect bites in tropical destinations. 'Travelers should always prioritize their health and safety by obtaining adequate insurance coverage and being aware of local health risks,' said Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Public Health Expert at the University of Edinburgh.

As of now, Hickey remains in intensive care, and her family continues to navigate the complexities of medical treatment abroad. The community's support during this difficult time has been overwhelming, with many expressing their hopes for Hickey’s recovery. Brougham, reflecting on the experience, stated, 'We go away all the time, and it’s not something we ever considered. It’s amazing how much pain a little tiny insect can have on you.'

Looking ahead, the family is left uncertain about Hickey's recovery timeline, with Brougham urging fellow travelers to take precautions against insect bites and to ensure they have appropriate travel insurance. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of travel and the importance of being prepared for unforeseen circumstances.