Mysterious collapse sparks fear
A British influencer has been found unconscious in her apartment in South Korea with a black eye and severe organ failure, sparking panic among her family 5,500 miles away. Ashley Surcombe, 29, was discovered slumped on the bathroom floor by police who forced entry after she stopped replying to messages.
She was rushed to intensive care and is now in a critical condition, suffering from extreme dehydration and multiple organ failure. Her condition remains unclear, and doctors are still trying to determine the cause of her sudden collapse.
Last seen over six weeks ago
Ashley, who has lived in Seoul for five years, had not posted on social media in over six weeks. Her last appearance was an Instagram video where she advertised a Korean beer and wished followers a Happy Chinese New Year.
Her family became concerned after missing a scheduled video call. A contact in South Korea alerted police, who broke into her flat and found no signs of forced entry. Ashley, who lives alone, had previously told her family she had bruised her face after hitting a door.
Hospital costs spiral out of control
With no valid health insurance, Ashley’s family are now facing enormous medical bills. Intensive care is costing them £1,500 a day and a £3,000 deposit was used up within 24 hours. Her sister, Kat Surcombe, says the family may be forced to sell their house to continue covering the costs.
“My dad has already said they might have to sell their home. Obviously the priority is Ashley, but they just don’t know how they’ll afford this,” she said.
Family desperate for answers
Kat, along with their parents Karen and Nigel and sister Tara, are waiting for updates while Ashley remains under close observation. They’ve launched a fundraiser in hopes of raising £50,000 to support her care and bring her home.
“It’s been very difficult,” Kat added. “She’s my baby sister. I want to give her the biggest cuddle and tell her that I love her. We just need answers, and we hope my dad can get them when he gets there.”