A tragic incident occurred involving a family from Wales during their holiday in Mallorca, Spain, when their three-year-old daughter, Eleri Ellesmere, drowned in a swimming pool at a private villa. The event unfolded on June 24, as the family enjoyed their vacation at Villa Francisca Mallorca, located in Palma de Mallorca.
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Eleri was discovered unresponsive in the pool, prompting immediate actions from her relatives and emergency responders. They attempted to perform CPR on the young girl before she was rushed to Son Espases Hospital, approximately 44 miles from the scene, for advanced medical care. Despite the efforts made by family members and healthcare professionals, Eleri was placed on life support and tragically passed away the following day.
The heartbreaking news was shared by Eleri’s mother, Cerys-Sarah Hemmings, who posted a poignant message on social media. She described the ordeal, expressing their despair while revealing that they were by Eleri’s side throughout the entire experience. “Our precious little Eleri Fairy was involved in an accident during the holiday,” she wrote. Cerys-Sarah further conveyed the incredible strength Eleri had shown in her final moments, adding, “This was not enough,” as she announced the loss of her daughter on June 25.
The family’s grief is compounded by the need for formal identification of Eleri’s body after it was returned to the UK. According to a recent inquest, the provisional cause of death has been established as mechanical asphyxiation due to drowning and subsequent respiratory failure. Gwent Coroner, Rose Farmer, confirmed these findings during proceedings heard on July 20. A comprehensive inquest has been scheduled for April 13, 2027, to further investigate the circumstances surrounding the child’s tragic death.
In light of their loss, Cerys-Sarah expressed her family’s deep sorrow in a subsequent message online. “We are broken, we have no words. It is like the world has stopped,” she lamented, emphasising the overwhelming pain they are experiencing. Cerys-Sarah also expressed gratitude towards the medical personnel who tirelessly tried to save their daughter, stating, “We want to thank every single member of the ambulance and hospital that battled tirelessly to try and bring our daughter back to us.”
In a bid to alleviate the financial burden associated with their daughter’s funeral, the family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraiser aims to raise money for Eleri’s funeral expenses and to help her parents navigate this difficult period without the anxiety of financial constraints. As of now, the campaign has garnered over $10,500 towards its goal of $13,375.
The fundraiser description, written by family members Shannen and Paige Hemmings, outlines their intentions to provide Eleri with the farewell she deserves while allowing her parents the necessary time and space to grieve together. “The funds raised will help ensure that beautiful Eleri is given the funeral she truly deserves,” they mentioned, highlighting the emotional toll on the family during this heart-wrenching time.
As the community rallies to support the Ellesmere family, the tragic loss of Eleri serves as a stark reminder of the many dangers associated with swimming pools and the importance of vigilance, particularly when children are involved. While the family navigates through their grief, they hope to celebrate the life of their beloved daughter and ensure her memory lives on.
Residents and families across the UK have expressed their condolences and support for the Ellesmere family during this incredibly challenging time. As they look forward to the future, the family will undoubtedly cherish the moments they shared with Eleri and will seek solace in the love and support that surrounds them in their community.