I read with interest Brian Cauchi's blunt letter aptly titled What Shall Become Of Our Children? (June 25). Firstly, this most pertinent of questions regarding the long-term future of the mentally impaired can no longer be ignored as most parents of children with special needs are basically saying the same thing.

Secondly, how much of a challenge would it pose to our government to provide a properly maintained residence to cater for their needs when, so far, there appears to be nothing happening on that front?

As a mother of a 35-year-old son with mental impairment, I would ask for understanding on this matter. Last October, my son suffered a mental breakdown from which we thought he may never fully recover. During this time he was seen by an assistant of the resident psychiatrist and a few days later discharged from Mater Dei Hospital.

Unsurprisingly, we were generously afforded a follow-up appoint-ment some eight months later and initially I thought I was having a senior moment, then it dawned on me that this was the best they could do! In the meantime I sought private help for my son and his recovery has been slow but steady. It was then that Inspire group stepped in, which was a Godsend. Finally he was motivated and had a reason to wake up in the morning, a reason to live.

In this fast-paced life and hi-tech world, we must never lose sight of our goals for these children, for they are vulnerable. Above all, we need reassurance from our government that something concrete and preferably lasting will be done when we are gone, to at least ensure their survival in this uncertain world. This situation of them having nowhere to go only adds further pressure to those who could surely do without it. Something must be done!