A young woman named Millie Jackson, who was vacationing in Spain with her boyfriend Cameron West, has faced a medical emergency that resulted in major brain surgery. Millie, who was 19 at the start of the trip and has since turned 20, was initially planning to undergo surgery in July to remove a brain tumour caused by her rare genetic condition, von Hippel-Lindau disease. This condition leads to the growth of benign cysts and tumours throughout the body and runs in her family, affecting both her mother and uncle.

Despite being cleared to travel, Millie fell seriously ill while in Malaga. On June 13, she experienced severe dizziness, nausea, and an inability to walk, prompting an urgent visit to the hospital where doctors deemed it unsafe for her to fly back home. Consequently, she underwent emergency brain surgery to remove the tumour from her cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls motor movements and balance.

Millie’s mother, Suzy Jackson, shared that while the initial surgery was successful, complications arose shortly after. Millie developed swelling on her brain and a buildup of fluid, requiring her to remain sedated and on high doses of antibiotics to combat an ensuing infection. Plans are in place for a second surgery to drain the fluid once the infection is under control.

Throughout this ordeal, Millie has needed assistance with breathing and has had a tracheostomy performed to facilitate more awake time during her recovery. Although her throat swelling has prevented her from speaking, she has managed to communicate by mouthing words and attempting to use sign language.

Suzy, who also faces her own brain surgery soon, flew to Spain to be with Millie but had to return to the UK for her scheduled operation. Millie’s boyfriend, Cameron, remains in Spain to support her during her recovery. Her family is grateful for the coverage provided by the UK Global Health Insurance Card but has started a fundraiser to help cover the additional costs of Cameron’s stay and any future expenses related to Millie’s care and return home.

A Facebook page has also been set up by Millie’s friends to raffle prizes and raise further funds. Despite the language barrier, Suzy praised the exceptional care Millie has received in Spain. She plans to keep in close contact with Millie’s doctors in Cardiff and hopes they can coordinate with the medical team in Spain for updates on Millie’s progress.