Oh, man. TCN has a truly tough row to hoe; blindness is completely terrifying as a health threat even when you know what's going on (at least it is for me, hypothetically speaking, and having worn glasses since I was six or so - they thought I couldn't read at all because I did so badly on the eye charts, but mom assured them that I read (devoured!) books all the time). My heart goes out to her, and to the niece as well. Your brother did everything right, and it sucks that it wasn't enough. :( Hopefully your sister's visit will make a difference.