Hard Truths: Brendon Donohue

Then, during the middle of the night, I received a Brisbane City Council evacuation alert telling me to “get ready to evacuate.”

I knew that the street was flooded, and cars were underwater. If I needed to navigate through flood waters, it would be impossible for me, particularly if I was unassisted.

I would not be able to use my digital aids. I was not sure if a support worker would be able to come and assist me of if I could call a taxi.

I also worried about running out of medication because my eye condition requires daily treatment to prevent permanent damage.

I remember feeling terrified because I had no idea how I would safely leave the building if conditions worsened. I felt isolated, confused and unsafe. I felt disregarded.