Thanks for your kind comments Fred and Rayna.

It’s been a few months since I last posted an update so I thought I’d do so now.

I am sorry to say that my brother appears to have been forgotten by the local health authority. He has been in the nursing home for nearly 11 months now and hasn’t received one visit from the local health authority continuing care department. I have been in contact with them and they apologised stating that they are still waiting for his file to come through from another office (it’s only been 11 months). My patience is waning a bit thin in view of the time that has already elapsed and the length of time left on the settlement visas.

Unlike the rest of the residents at the nursing home, my brother’s health has improved since he has been there. He still has some complex needs and is unable to look after himself but I feel that consideration needs to be given about his suitability for long term rehabilitation, maybe even at a specialist brain injury unit. I’m hoping that his GP might refer him for a brain scan to assess the extent of any potential healing process to add weight to this. I have also asked to be present at any assessment that is undertaken by the health authority about his future care/ funding and will keep badgering them until it has been done.

On a happier note, my sister-in-law and nephew are returning to the Philippines shortly for Christmas, she misses her family so much and it will be a well-earned break for her.