Family Holiday To Spain A ‘Write-Off’ After Dad Falls Ill

A dad who needed hospital treatment after he developed gastroenteritis during a break at a Spanish holiday resort has called on specialist lawyers to investigate.

Ian Knight, 31, began to struggle with symptoms including stomach cramps and diarrhoea just days into his stay at the three-star HSM Canarios Park in Calles Mallorca.

The problems proved so severe that he was eventually left with no option but to go to hospital abroad, where he was subsequently diagnosed with gastroenteritis and placed on a drip.

Ian, who is a carpenter, was on holiday with his wife, Claire Knight, 27, and children Kian Knight 8, and Rowan Knight, 4.

Ian, of Ammanford in Dyfed, has now instructed Irwin Mitchell’s specialist International Personal Injury team to investigate his experiences and help him gain answers regarding the problems that went on to ruin his holiday.

The legal experts have vast expertise in providing support to holidaymakers affected by gastric illness issues at resorts and on cruise ships all over the world.

Nadhia Akhtar, the specialist lawyer at Irwin Mitchell who is representing Ian, said: “We are hugely concerned by the account which Ian has provided and are already thoroughly investigating all aspects of his experience.

“This is yet another case which puts a spotlight on how serious gastric illness can be and we have seen many cases where such problems have had a lasting impact on those affected and led to long-term health issues.

“As such, we are determined to help Ian get answers regarding these problems and ensure that, where possible, lessons can be learned from what happened.” If you also travelled to this hotel and can assist with our ongoing enquiries we would like to hear from you.

Ian’s ten-day stay at the HSM Canarios Park, which was booked through Baddessa Holidays, began on 19 May, 2018. He started to feel unwell three days later.

He recalled: “On the day when the illness hit, we had been at a water park and were provided with packed lunches by our hotel and prior to the illness I had not eaten anywhere else apart from the hotel. I started to suffer from stomach cramps as I was trying to sleep.

“The illness was really awful and when the diarrhoea started I was in a really bad way. I couldn’t believe I had to go to hospital and the entire holiday after that just felt like a write-off. I got very little enjoyment out of it after that.”

Ian’s acute symptoms persisted for two weeks and he continues to suffer with symptoms and the illness even meant he required time off from his job on his return to the UK.

He added: “This was supposed to be a nice relaxing family break but the illness meant it was anything but that. I can’t believe it happened and just want to know whether something could have been done to stop it.

“Ultimately, I’d hate to think that another family might go on to face the issues that we did.”