Tharel Thompson, who was injured in a knife attack while on holiday in England, is now receiving national coverage in the United Kingdom (UK) one year after the incident.
Thompson, a Barbadian national, is reportedly stranded in the United Kingdom following injuries he suffered during a violent assault while out in Reading last year, according to his family.
In his initial interview with UK media on Channel 4’s main news programme, the 30-yearold described to reporter Ayasha Tull – who has Barbadian heritage – the consequences of the incident, which resulted in significant changes for him and his family.
In the early morning hours of February 2024, Thompson sustained a head injury as a result of an unprovoked stabbing. As a result, he suffers from limited mobility on his left side and brain swelling, requiring round-the-clock care and more surgery. As a foreign national, he is not eligible for NHS treatment.
Barbadian Martin Forde, KC, is representing Thompson pro bono, offering legal advice or representation free of charge.
In his interview, Forde referenced the lapsed reciprocal agreement between the UK and Barbados from 2016, which previously allowed citizens of both countries to access health care in the other country. This agreement’s expiration has complicated Thompson’s situation. He also said that he was sure if the roles were reversed the Barbados Government would have treated a British tourist and it is important that the governments talk to each other.
Mother, Yvonne Thompson, who is currently in the United Kingdom to care for her son, has said he is not medically fit to be relocated to Barbados, as the necessary treatment is unavailable there.
Delicate situation
A statement released by the Barbados High Commission to Channel 4 news said: “This is a delicate and emotional situation, and money should never be the deciding factor in health care. . . .”
The statement added: “It’s not appropriate to say that Tharel is stuck and can’t get home.”
The High Commission’s statement also said that if Thompson returned to Barbados, he would receive the treatment he requires.
The issue is that for Thompson to regain the ability to fly, he requires a titanium plate to replace part of his skull and safeguard his brain. According to UK law, NHS Trusts are mandated to charge overseas visitors.
Thompson did not have travel insurance at the time of his holiday. The expenses have currently accumulated to more than £160 000.
In her interview, Thompson’s mother said Tharel “feels like he’s between a rock and a hard place”.
The Department of Health said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Thompson and his family following this shocking attack, for which the perpetrator has rightly received a lengthy prison sentence. We are unable to comment on individual cases.”
The family, in a display of unwavering determination, has pledged to continue their fundraising efforts to support Tharel’s ongoing care and eventual safe return home.
Despite the incident at the Reading nightclub and the challenging circumstances he currently faces, Thompson expressed his optimism.
“I want my life to look bright,” he said. Former British soldier, Krisma Anthony, 23, of Repository Road, Greenwich, London, was found guilty of attempted murder by a majority verdict at Reading Crown Court on August 21. Anthony had earlier pleaded guilty to possession of a knife blade/ sharp pointed object in a public place. (TR)
