Tharel Thompson, who was injured in a knife attack while on holiday, is now receiving national coverage in the UK one year after the incident.
Tharel, 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 program, the 30-year-old 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, Tharel 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 Tharel pro bono, offering legal advice or representation free of charge in the public interest. 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 healthcare in the other country. This agreement’s expiration has complicated Tharel’s situation. He also said that he was quite sure if the role were reversed, the Barbados Government would have treated a British Tourist, and it’s important that the government talk to each other.
Mum Yvonne Thompson, who is currently in the United Kingdom to care for her son, has stated that he is not medically fit to be relocated to Barbados, as the necessary treatment is unavailable there.
In a statement released by the Barbados High Commission to Channel 4 news
“This is a delicate and emotional situation, and money should never be the deciding factor in healthcare…” Their statement continues: “It’s not appropriate to say that Tharel is stuck and can’t get home.”
The High Commission statement also said that if Tharel returned to Barbados, he would receive the treatment he requires.
The issue is that for Tharel 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. Tharel did not have travel insurance at the time of his holiday. The expenses have currently accumulated to over £160,000.
In her interview, Mum Yvonne Thompson 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 harrowing incident at the Reading nightclub and the challenging circumstances he currently faces, Tharel bravely expressed his optimism about the future during an interview with the Channel 4 presenter, inspiring hope and resilience in the audience.
He commented, “I want my life to look bright.”
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 Wednesday, 21 August. Anthony had earlier pleaded guilty to possession of a knife blade/sharp pointed object in a public place.