My poor step-brother

I'm sitting here in a state of shock and have no one to talk too, so here I am. I got a phone call from my father thismorning to say that my step-brother is in hospital, he fell down a cliff and has broken his back, he will spend the rest of his life in a wheel chair! Sounds like he is very lucky to be alive but he doesn't think so at the moment. Its just so sad, it makes me want to cuddle my girls and never let them go.

Big hugs for you and all your family!

Awww thats awful news, sending big hugs to you and your family.

thats so sad. how old is he? Sounds like its going to be a rough road ahead for your family. Remember we are all here if you need to 'talk'

Man... I don't know what to say, Debbie.  That's really rough for you all, especially for your bro.  I hope he's being beautifully being taken care of in hospital.   for you... hope you get to see him soon. 

Thanks ladies, I'm feeling a bit better, DH is home and I've had a good cry.

Ben is 23, he just returned from living in Japan a few weeks ago. We were close growing up but over the last few years haven't seen much of each other as we traveled around. His family is quite large so he is bound to be swamped with visiters so I might leave it a bit till I go see him, but will talk to dad to keep up with his progress. Looks like he'll be in hospital for about a month, and then begin the process to adjusting to his new life, theres no reason he can't achieve the life he wants, he will just have a few more challenges than the rest of us.

wow! what a shock that must've been! i'm glad you've had a good cry, it does wonders eh
what a rough road ahead for your brother and all your family. people in wheelchairs amaze me with the things they can do these days!

Debbie Im so sorry to hear your news .. big coming your way.

I agree with Aimee, it seems people who become disabled lead amazing lives, they manage to accomplish so much. Sounds like he will have lots of support from his family, and he is lucky to have you to care for him too

Thanks for all your support guys, its so nice to be able to come here and talk about things.

Latest news is that Ben is doing better, mentaly anyway. Someone is always with him through the night as this is when he gets down He is going to have a operation on Monday that will allow him to sit up (I think they fuse the spine together) then he'll be more comfortable and be able to do things and start his recovery.

He's staying at Auckland hospital until a place is available at the Spinal Unit in Otara. Then he'll stay there for about 6 months, all the facilities there sound great, they even have accommodation for relatives to stay in which is brilliant. I know NZs health system takes a lot of critism but I think they're doing a great job looking after Ben.

Once again, thanks everyone for all the hugs and support.