Phuketwan Updating Report
FAMILY and a network of hundreds of Facebook friends of a British diver in a coma are trying to have him flown home for treatment.
The diver, Shane Free, was badly injured in a motorcycle crash more than two weeks ago and is now in Wachira Hospital in Phuket City, with his mother at his bedside.
A well-known member of Phuket's dive community, the 32-year-old has recovered to be able to come off a ventilator and breathe unassisted. But he has been in a coma since December 13.
His mother Monica Vearer is reported to be on Phuket, with consular officials also assisting in the case.
A cousin, Abi Gagen told the British media: ''It has been a nightmare. He is now breathing on his own but is still in a coma.''
He added the 346 friends who have joined a Facebook 'Help Shane Free' group have been ''a great comfort''.
Mr Free left Suffolk in 2005 when he went to Ibiza to work as a diving instructor then moved to Phuket, where he has been since.
He set up his own business, www.thephuketdiver.com. Family members are believed to be concerned about the mounting cost of lengthy hospital treatment on Phuket.
It is hoped that Facebook friends will be able to raise enough money to take Mr Free to Britain or at least pay for his continued care on Phuket.
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