University of Alabama Student Suffers Severe Injuries After Fall During Dominican Republic Vacation

A family vacation turned into a harrowing medical emergency when University of Alabama freshman Matthew Polaski suffered multiple skull fractures and other serious injuries after a fall in the Dominican Republic during his winter break.

The incident occurred on December 28 when Polaski, who was enjoying time with his parents Mike and Stephanie and his brother Evan, sustained a severe head injury that required immediate medical intervention. Emergency surgery was performed at a local Dominican Republic hospital to reduce brain swelling—a procedure that likely saved his life, according to information shared on a GoFundMe page established for the family.

After being stabilized and placed in a medically induced coma, Polaski was transported via international medical flight to Miami, where he continues to receive specialized treatment. The exact circumstances surrounding his fall have not been disclosed.

Recent updates on the fundraising page indicate that Polaski’s injuries are extensive, including skull fractures, a fractured pelvis, and lower back vertebral fractures. Despite the severity of his condition, there have been encouraging signs of recovery. When doctors reduced his sedation to check for motor responses, Polaski reportedly showed movement in both arms and legs upon chest stimulation.

In what the family described as “the most emotional update,” Polaski has begun showing signs of consciousness, opening his mouth and squeezing his mother’s hand in response to stimuli—moments that brought his mother to tears.

The Robbinsville Police Department in New Jersey confirmed that Matthew’s father previously served as the department’s chief, highlighting the family’s connections to public service.

Financial challenges have compounded the family’s ordeal. Medical expenses in the Dominican Republic have already reached approximately $75,000, with limited insurance coverage for international care. The international medical transport alone cost between $35,000 and $55,000, according to the GoFundMe page.

“Unfortunately, insurance provides very limited coverage for international medical care, and even with insurance, medical expenses in the U.S. add up quickly. This is only the beginning,” the fundraising page states.

The medical emergency has rallied support for the Polaski family. The GoFundMe page describes Matthew as a “hardworking, respectful young man with a deep passion for gymnastics” who had just begun his college journey at Alabama, where he joined the Sigma Pi fraternity.

“Mike and Steph have always been unwavering in their support—traveling to countless meets, tournaments, and college visits to help Matthew pursue his dreams,” the page adds.

This incident highlights the potential risks American travelers face when experiencing medical emergencies abroad. The Dominican Republic remains one of the Caribbean’s most popular tourist destinations for Americans, with millions visiting the country annually. However, travelers should be aware that U.S. health insurance plans typically provide limited or no coverage for medical care received outside the country, and costs for emergency medical evacuation can be substantial.

Travel experts recommend that tourists purchase comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage before traveling internationally, particularly to destinations where healthcare infrastructure may differ from U.S. standards.

As Matthew Polaski continues his recovery in Miami, the family faces an uncertain timeline and mounting expenses for what will likely be an extended rehabilitation process.