A University of Alabama freshman reportedly suffered multiple skull fractures and other serious injuries after a fall while on vacation with his family in the Dominican Republic during the winter holidays.
Matthew Polaski was home on winter break from his first year at the University of Alabama when the incident occurred. A GoFundMe page set up for Polaski and his family captured the sudden shift from celebration to crisis.
“What should have been a joyful time together quickly became every parent’s worst nightmare,” the fundraising page stated.
Polaski was vacationing with his parents, Mike and Steph, and family member Evan when the accident happened on December 28th. The circumstances of the fall were not immediately clear.
Emergency Surgery and Medical Transport to Miami
Following the fall, Polaski was rushed to a local hospital in the Dominican Republic where doctors performed emergency surgery to relieve swelling on his brain. He was placed in a medically induced coma and remained in critical care.
Once his condition stabilized, Polaski was transported by international medical flight to Miami, where his treatment continues.
An update posted on the GoFundMe page detailed the extent of his injuries.
- Skull fractures requiring emergency surgical intervention to address brain swelling.
- Fractured pelvis sustained during the fall.
- Lower back vertebrae fractures adding to the complexity of his recovery.
The severity of these injuries underscores the long road to recovery that lies ahead for the young student and his family.
Early Signs of Recovery Bring Emotional Moments
A Wednesday update on the GoFundMe page shared cautiously optimistic news about Polaski’s condition. Medical staff reduced his sedation and checked for motor responses.
“Both arms and legs responded on chest stimulation, another good early sign. Much is still being determined with mostly with the head injury for unknowns,” the update stated.
The update also described an emotional moment for the family as Polaski began showing signs of awareness.
“Probably the most emotional update as a parent, Matthew started motion on his own, opened his mouth, and squeezed Steph’s hand in responses. I can’t imagine how many tears Steph had in that moment,” the GoFundMe page read.
A Promising Young Man With His Future Ahead
The GoFundMe page describes Polaski as a “hardworking, respectful young man with a deep passion for gymnastics.”
“He recently began his college journey at Alabama, joined Sigma Pi fraternity, and has his whole future ahead of him. Mike and Steph have always been unwavering in their support — traveling to countless meets, tournaments, and college visits to help Matthew pursue his dreams,” the page added.
The University of Alabama confirmed it has been in contact with the family during this difficult time.
“University staff have been in touch with the family to offer support, and our thoughts are with Matthew and his loved ones during this time,” the university told Fox News Digital in a statement.
The Robbinsville Police Department in New Jersey noted that Matthew’s father, Mike, formerly served as its chief.
Medical Bills Mount as Family Faces Financial Strain
The family now faces significant financial challenges as medical expenses continue to accumulate. According to the GoFundMe page, Polaski’s medical bills in the Dominican Republic have already reached nearly $75,000.
The costs extend far beyond the initial emergency care. The fundraising page outlined the financial burden the family is facing.
- International medical transport costs estimated between $35,000 and $55,000.
- Limited insurance coverage for international medical care leaves significant gaps.
- Ongoing U.S. medical expenses that add up quickly even with insurance.
“This is only the beginning,” the GoFundMe page stated, emphasizing that the family’s financial needs will continue to grow as Polaski’s treatment progresses.
When the Unexpected Happens, You Need Experienced Counsel
Accidents can happen anywhere, and the aftermath often involves navigating complex medical, insurance, and legal challenges.
Our experiencedpersonal injury attorneys here at Baxley Maniscalco understand how overwhelming these situations can be for families. We’re committed to helping Alabama residents understand their legal options when facing unexpected crises.
Contact Baxley Maniscalco today to schedule a free personal injury consultation, or give us a call at (256) 770-7232.
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