Matt Masson

I nominate my 24 year old son, Matt. He suffered a traumatic brain injury in Nov 2010 and was in a coma for 6 weeks and in hosp/rehab for 6 months. Throughout this he has been 100% positive and above all cheerful. He has been an inspiration to all around him, especially to other patients. From nothing he has already come back to walking on a frame and he is working tirelessly to achieve his goals of skiing and working as a watersports instructor by next year. His drive and determination are awesome and he has won over all the therapists, who tried to tell him he might not get there. He truly embodies the Olympic spirit of being the best he can be. Not once has he ever felt sorry for himself and the affection and loyalty of his friends throughout this time speaks volumes for his character. The nurses have been amazed at his sense of humour and cheerfulness - often young men in his situation get very depressed or angry, but not Matt. The very first thing he did when he came out of his coma was make a joke at my expense using hand signals, much to the delight and amazement of the nurses. In the neurorehab unit he always showed concern for his fellow patients and made a point of befriending patients who were having difficulty in communicating and were often consequently ignored by other patients. Because of his fantastic attitude, being his 'carer' has never been a chore. He has made it a pleasure and a privilege. He is sports mad and this would be such an honour for him.