British teacher in Dubai ICU after stillbirth as medical bills surpass Dh500,000
By Dubai Currents Staff2 min read
A British former teacher in Dubai remains in an induced coma in intensive care after losing her baby at 30 weeks, with mounting hospital expenses nearing Dh500,000 and a community fundraiser providing some relief.
Community fundraiser
By Thursday afternoon, a GoFundMe appeal had raised £104,667 (Dh512,387) toward its £120,000 (Dh587,400) target, backed by more than 2,500 donations. The campaign was set up by Zoey Campbell-Lowndes’s family to help cover treatment costs.
Zoey, who previously taught at GEMS Founders School – Dubai, delivered a stillborn baby boy and suffered severe complications afterward. She is fighting for her life at a Dubai hospital, and her family has appealed for financial support as bills have surpassed £100,000 (about Dh460,000).
School expresses concern
Matthew Burfield, Executive Principal and CEO of GEMS Founders School – Dubai and Executive Vice President – Education at GEMS Education, told Khaleej Times: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Zoey’s baby boy and very concerned for her as she receives intensive medical care. Zoey previously taught at GEMS Founders School – Dubai, and our thoughts are with her, her partner and their family during this profoundly difficult time. We are respecting the family’s privacy and will not be sharing further details about her medical condition on their behalf.”
Critical condition
According to the fundraising appeal, Zoey remains in a coma in the intensive care unit. Her health deteriorated significantly after she underwent a Caesarean section, with doctors treating multiple complications. She has spent three days in ICU, suffered two episodes of internal bleeding, and has required blood transfusions and dialysis. Her liver and kidneys are failing.
The family described the situation as an unimaginable ordeal, grieving the loss of their baby while hoping for Zoey’s recovery.
Insurance shortfall
The family believed their birth plan insurance would cover complications, but they later discovered the policy covered the baby but not medical emergencies involving the mother. The cost of treatment has already exceeded £100,000, with expenses continuing to rise for surgeries, blood transfusions, dialysis and intensive care.
The family has thanked everyone who has offered support, messages and prayers, saying every contribution and share helps them through the crisis.
