I HAVE to write following the article about the Liverpool Care Pathway (Echo, June 4) as my brother was put on this.

During an operation for a brain tumour nine months ago he suffered a stroke and was left paralysed down his left side. He was never able to come home so spent his time in hospital until he was taken into a care home.

While in the home, he suffered from colitis and c.diff and had to be taken back to hospital. When he recovered, he was taken back to the care home.

The hospital then called him back to have a plate put in his head to remove the dent left following the first operation.

However, during the second operation, it was found the tumour had grown even more.

After the operation my brother was quite ill and we were told that once no more could be done for him he would be sent back to the care home and put on the Liverpool Care Pathway.

He was sent back to the care home on Friday, May 3, placed on the care pathway and not expected to live past the Bank Holiday Monday.

But my brother lasted for 16 days. No food or drink was given to him. He died on Sunday, May 19, a shell of the man he used to be.

To watch someone you care for basically starve to death was heartbreaking for all the family.

As you can see, he did not last the 72 hours expected – he lasted 16 DAYS.

This care pathway may work in some cases, but not in my brother’s. Care must be taken to make sure this does not happen to others. Who can judge how long someone has to live?

I have not named hospitals or the care home. I just want to get my opinion across.

Name and address supplied