Matthew had his tracheostomy out yesterday, so great excitement for all, although he is very tired, and will have to learn to use some lazy muscles again.

In the next few days, we’ll have the opportunity at last to talk to him (actually, the other way around – we suspect he might have had enough of being talked ‘at’ but now he can at least tell us!). At this stage, he seems strong and focused on regaining his independence.

We might convince him to start dictating to us so we can start updating you in his own words, but from here, it appears to be onwards and upwards and the journey to date, as you would all appreciate, has been nothing short of miraculous.