A devastating tragedy has struck a Victoria family after 22-year-old Nash Hellwig lost his life during a backpacking trip to Guatemala.
In response to the sudden and tragic loss, a close family friend, Stirling, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to provide support to Nash’s grieving mother, Jo-Anne, and alleviate the financial burdens they now face.
The fateful incident occurred on Nash’s first night in Guatemala. After arriving in Antigua, Nash returned to his hostel following a casual dinner.
According to the GoFundMe, tragically, during the night, he fell from the top bunk and suffered severe injuries.
Fellow travelers immediately called for assistance and accompanied Nash to the hospital, where it was determined he needed a CAT scan to evaluate his condition.
Due to the unavailability of scanning equipment at the public hospital, he was transferred to a private hospital, where it was discovered that he had excessive internal bleeding in his liver and required immediate surgery, the GoFundMe said.
Despite the valiant efforts of medical professionals and the unwavering support of the hostel owners and fellow travelers, Nash’s condition deteriorated rapidly.
The excessive blood loss led to cardiac arrest, and despite 45 minutes of resuscitation attempts, he could not be revived.
“During the entire process, Nash was never alone. The travellers, Leo and Matteo and hostel owners, Lorena, Joep and Dean, were always there for him. He was never alone with these angels by his side, giving him strength and courage until the end,” the GoFundMe read.
According to Stirling, Nash’s greatest pride and joy was his 2-year-old daughter, Saylor Joanne Thornhill, whom he shared with her mother.
“Nash tried to visit when he could and treasured the moments with Missy Moo. He was planning visit them when he returned from his trip with all sorts of stories of his adventures,” said Stirling.
Nash was known for his resilience and determination in the face of life’s challenges. His family said despite struggling with health issues and other adversities, he possessed an indomitable spirit that led him to embark on this backpacking journey.
Nash’s passion for boating and his aspirations to work as a deckhand on a super yacht fueled his dreams. At the time of his untimely passing, he was employed at Victoria International Airport, where he worked with air yachts and the Air Canada Jazz crew.
The GoFundMe campaign was initiated by Stirling, a longtime friend of the Hellwig family, who was shocked by the news. Stirling recounted the heartbreaking moment when Jo-Anne tearfully informed him of Nash’s passing.
Recognizing the immense emotional toll and the financial hardships faced by Jo-Anne and her family, Stirling felt compelled to organize this fundraising effort.
The campaign aims to alleviate the financial strain resulting from the unforeseen circumstances and support Jo-Anne during her stay in Guatemala, where she is working to bring Nash’s remains back to Canada.
The funds will also contribute to funeral arrangements in Canada and provide financial support to Nash’s daughter.
As of this publication, the GoFundMe campaign has raised $15,250 of its $40,000 goal.
