A Melfort, Sask., family will soon have the remains of their loved one back home.
Alicia Garlock’s remains will be coming home to Canada after her family was able raise the money to pay a $250,000 medical bill in China.
Her family said Tuesday their goal was accomplished through a combination of private donations, online crowdfunding, and bank loans. Her body has been cremated and will be returned, although they are unsure on when.
The 38-year-old woman was working as an English teacher in China when she became ill. She was placed in a medically induced coma, but died in mid-February.
According to the GoFundMe page, the account will remain open to cover any other expenses and help out her partner Eldon and daughter Remi.
A public announcement is expected when a memorial service date has been set.
In the meantime, the family is advising people who are working outside of Canada to know how much health insurance they have and consider getting more if it’s not enough.
Melfort is approximately 160 kilometres northeast of Saskatoon.