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Family faces horror after hotel buffet meal in Gran Canaria

Michelle Dell became gravely ill after eating at a hotel buffet, impacting her family for years.

August 3, 2025 at 06:45 PM

I nearly died after eating omelette at hotel buffet in Gran Canaria - but it was my daughter who was scarred for life

A holiday in Gran Canaria turns into a life-altering event for a family after a buffet meal.

Family nightmare unfolds after hotel buffet meal in Gran Canaria

Michelle Dell's family vacation in Gran Canaria transformed into a health crisis when she fell gravely ill after eating at a hotel buffet. After consuming a Spanish omelette, Michelle experienced severe symptoms, ultimately diagnosed with salmonella. Her daughter Lizzie, aged 11 at the time, witnessed the traumatic events and developed a debilitating phobia surrounding food, leading to years of anxiety and restricted eating. Michelle now lives with chronic health issues, while Lizzie has begun a journey to recovery after years of struggling with her fear of vomiting.

Key Takeaways

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Michelle contracted salmonella after eating at a hotel buffet.

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Lizzie developed a phobia of vomiting called emetophobia.

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The incident left Michelle with chronic health problems for years.

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The family experienced significant emotional and mental distress.

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Food safety regulations are critical in hospitality settings.

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Support and therapy can help treat traumatic responses to illness.

"I feel lucky every day of my life to still be here but, also, I have felt terrible guilt for what happened to Lizzie."

Michelle Dell reflects on her survival and her daughter's trauma after the incident.

"When I saw mum, it was like the worst horror film I’d ever seen."

Lizzie describes the traumatic moment of seeing her mother in distress.

"I’d spent 12 years trying to avoid being sick and now I had it, full on."

Lizzie discusses her breakthrough after confronting her phobia.

"I cherish every day. I’ve gone from seeing my daughter’s life slipping away to seeing her embracing it."

Michelle expresses her gratitude for her daughter's recovery and their renewed lives.

This troubling incident highlights the serious risks associated with food safety in vacation settings. The psychological aftermath for Lizzie exemplifies how traumatic events during childhood can lead to long-lasting mental health challenges. As travel continues to increase globally, ensuring food safety in hotels is crucial not only for physical health but also for mental well-being. The connection between foodborne illness and psychological trauma remains an area of concern, requiring attention from both the hospitality industry and health professionals.