A British father-of-two has become stranded in Spain after plunging from a balcony and suffering catastrophic injuries.
Matty Durbin, described as a ‘passionate and dedicated’ football coach, fractured his pelvis and back in four places in the horrific accident last week.
He is currently too fragile to be moved back to the UK and will continue to be treated in Spain until he is well enough to be repatriated.
His family and friends have launched a GoFundMe to help pay the costs.
The appeal reads: ‘Many of you will know Matty Durbin as the passionate and dedicated coach of Clutton U10s, and a familiar face across Clutton FC. Whether he’s giving up his evenings to run training or cheering the kids on at the weekend, Matty is always there, a genuine community hero who never asks for anything in return.
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‘Last week, while away in Spain, Matty suffered a terrible accident. He fell from a balcony and fractured his pelvis and his back in four places. He’s currently stuck in Spain, unable to travel home, and faces a long, painful recovery.
‘Matty is a self-employed electrician and has his partner and two young children at home. With no way to work for the foreseeable future, and additional costs building up abroad, his family are facing a tough few months.
‘Anyone who knows Matty will know he’d be mortified we’re doing this – but the truth is, he needs a bit of help right now. He’s spent years giving his time and energy to others. Now it’s time for us to give a little back.’
The appeal said that any money raised will go towards travel expenses for his family while he’s still in Spain, repatriation costs when he is well enough to go home, support for his family while he is out of work and any physio or other help he will need during recovery.
It added: ‘Matty over the years has sponsored many youth team football kits and training tops and is always first to help out when someone has faced injuries or difficult times in the past
‘Not only is he a fellow coach but he’s also a huge Bristol City fan, a role model to the kids he coaches, and a cracking bloke. Let’s rally around him like he’s done for so many others.’
The appeal has already raised £14,801 of its £16,000 target.
In an update on Saturday, Matty himself said: ‘I’m honestly lost for words. The outpouring of love, kindness, generosity, and support from everyone back home has completely overwhelmed me and my family.
‘During what has been one of the most emotional and challenging times of our lives, your messages, your help, and your donations have provided us with the strength to push through.
‘It’s not just the financial support, though that means more than I can say, but it’s the emotional strength you’ve given me. You’ve reminded me what I’m fighting for. Every bit of love you’ve sent my way is helping me find the determination to heal and get back to England as soon as possible.
‘From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I’m doing everything I can to get better and be back with the people who mean the world to me.’
