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Travel Insurance Expires Before Paralyzed Student Can Return to Toronto

January 17th, 2016  |  Canadian Business

While vacationing in Cuba, Napu Boychuk was pulled underwater by an undertow that shattered part of his spinal cord. Today, more than a month after this terrible freak accident, Boychuk lies paralyzed in a Cuban hospital. His travel insurance expired a week ago.

After nearly drowning in the waters of Varadero beach on December 13 and undergoing extensive surgery, the Ryerson University dance student has yet to regain the use of his limbs.

At this point in time, CBC News says Boychuk’s medical bills have racked up to more than $20,000. And then there’s the cost of his flight back home.

Travel medical insurance safeguards Canadians against the brunt of these costs. A comprehensive policy will offer coverage for out-of-country medical care, emergency transportation, and a trip back home. However, travel policies are only valid for a set period of time and up until a specific monetary value. On January 7, Boychuk’s travel insurance expired.

Boychuk is expected to remain in Cuba until February. In the meantime, his family is trying to raise money to cover his medical expenses.

Image Courtesy of Adobe Stock