A FORMER Dursley taxi driver whose life was devastated by a bout of measles is hoping to move into a specially adapted bungalow in his hometown before Christmas.

Paul Dyer, who worked alongside his wife Tracey at PMD Taxis in Long Street for four years, was left severely brain damaged, and unable to walk and barely talk, after contracting measles in 2017.

Paul is now living in a nursing home in Quedgeley, and Tracey has been desperately trying to find a suitable local authority bungalow so they can be together once again in a home where she can care for him in a safe environment.

A bungalow in Dursley has now been found, but it is completely bare. Tracey, who had to give up her taxi work during the pandemic, does not have the funds to kit it out, so a friend has set up a crowdfunder to help.

“I worked as a taxi driver up until Covid, but then I had to surrender my licence as I could not risk catching the virus and passing it on to Paul on a visit,” said Tracey.

“The bungalow we have been allocated has been stripped bare, as it’s the council’s policy.

“So I have to start from scratch, with paint, flooring, blinds, all the white goods and everything else."

Tracey’s friend Kar Butler decided to organise a fundraiser on the couple’s behalf and is aiming to raise £3,000 so that Paul can come home in time for Christmas.

“I hope people will join me in helping Tracey get over that last hurdle in getting Paul home after three long years away,” she said.

“Funds are desperately needed for new flooring, curtains, blinds, white goods, washing machine, tumble dryer and cooker, which are all necessary for Paul’s safe return home.”

Tracey is now keen to highlight the devastating impact measles can have.

“The more people are aware of the damage measles can cause when not vaccinated, the better,” she said.

“Initially the doctors were baffled as to what it was that Paul had.

“It wasn’t until he had a lumbar puncture that they discovered the measles."

She added: “But I really do feel that once he is home, he will improve some more.”

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