LONDON, UK (20 Aug 2005) -- THE family of a Shirley diver being treated in an Egyptian hospital have admitted their bid to get insurers to stump up £20,000 for medical costs is now a 'compassionate plea'. Anthony Allen, aged 67, has been in Marsa Shagra Hospital for two weeks while he receives expensive treatment for decompression sickness, known as 'the bends'. But while costs are expected to rise well over £20,000, Mr Allen's insurance company, Lloyds TSB, have refused to pay out because the experienced diver went below their depth limit of 30 metres. The Allens had argued that the condition was caused by dehydration and not depth. "It's now a compassionate plea," said son Mark Allen. "We are just trying to speak to the insurers and argue over a few points but they are still adamant that they are not going to pay." Mr Allen, of Stanway Road, started walking on Wednesday for the first time since he was taken sick in the resort of Marsa Alam. But while the father-of-two makes a steady recovery, his sons may have to turn to life savings. "We may have to find out what savings my father has, but obviously those savings are for him during his retirement. Otherwise we will look at loans but we still don't know how much it will cost," added Mark. | | Anthony Allen failed to insure himself for deep diving. Should we pay for his mistake? Go to Scuba Poll and have your say. Solihull MP Lorely Burt has now issued a warning to other travellers: "'This should serve as a lesson to anyone contemplating any hazardous sporting activity: check the small print of your policy before you do anything," added Mrs Burt. SOURCE - icSolihull |
