THE CAMPAIGNING daughter of a former spitfire pilot has received support from people across the country in her fight to ensure he continues to receive NHS care funding. Sally Mejor, of Foxholes Hill, received a letter two weeks ago which said her father,

THE CAMPAIGNING daughter of a former spitfire pilot has received support from people across the country in her fight to ensure he continues to receive NHS care funding.

Sally Mejor, of Foxholes Hill, received a letter two weeks ago which said her father, John Mejor, who lives in Linksway Nursing Home, Douglas Avenue, may no longer receive full financial subsidy for his nursing needs.

Mr Mejor, who suffers from a form of dementia, qualified for the NHS' Continuing Care package 18 months ago.

The story, since appearing exclusively in last week's Journal, has been covered in the media nationwide, including on BBC Radio 4, Five Live and West Country Tonight.

Sally's ordeal, as a result, has touched the hearts of scores of people. Her main concern over the threatened withdrawal of funding is his condition of health has not changed in the 18 month period.

After last week's Journal article, East Devon MP Hugo Swire reiterated his vow to ensure Mr Mejor continues to receive funding - making the pledge in the House of Commons.

Mr Swire said: "Dementia is a distressing and serious condition that not only affects the patient but also their family and carers.

"Dementia was to be made a 'national priority' but this has simply not turned out to be the case. A particularly shocking example is that of my constituent Mr Mejor.

"An 88-year-old former spitfire pilot who has served both his country and community, suffers from the condition and may now be forced to sell his home following the threatened withdrawal of full funding as part of his continuing care package."

A number of people from around the world have commented on the issue on online newspaper forums.

Barry Myatt, from Texas, USA, said: "Imagine how servicemen would feel in WWII to know this is what they could expect."

Richard James, from Birmingham, said: "What a shame this gentleman and his family are been so shamefully treated by the very state that he volunteered to serve and lay down his life for."

Parveen Brown, who is responsible for continuing healthcare funding at NHS Devon, said there was no question of Mr Mejor's funding suddenly being cut off.

"Full funding will stay in place for Mr Mejor while a comprehensive appeals process takes place. The pace of that process will be set to fit in around the family's needs.