Gibbo

[Jewelz^]

Hi guys,

It's been a little while since my last post, so I wanted to share another update on Gibbo's progress.

The big news is that he's now officially out of ICU, a huge milestone after everything he's been through. He's eating proper food again, drinking what he likes (within reason!), he's had his trachy removed, which means he's finally speaking unaided again. Hearing his voice properly for the first time in a while has been amazing.

Gibbo has now moved to Canterbury Hospital, which is about 15 miles from home. They've got a more specialised physio team there, which is the next important step in his recovery. Now that he's "out of the woods" in terms of survival, he's had a full assessment from the physios, and the results are tough to hear, but at least we now have clarity.

He's been diagnosed with a complete C5 spinal injury. That means he has full control of his head, neck, and shoulders, He has biceps, but no triceps which means limited arm movement. He has slight wrist movement but no use of his fingers, everything from the chest down is paralysed.

Right now, he's waiting in Canterbury for a place to open up at Stoke Mandeville, where the spinal injury specialists are. That's where the real long-term rehab journey will begin.

Despite all this, Gibbo continues to show incredible spirit. When I visited on Monday, he was out of the hospital gown and in actual clothes, it felt like a small but powerful bit of normality returning. He was also in a reclined chair and is gradually building up to sitting more upright, though there are still issues with his blood pressure when he sits up for too long. It's slow going, but it's steady progress.

Somehow, through everything, Gibbo remains his usual cheeky self, full of banter, winding up the nurses and doctors, and keeping spirits high. Genuinely inspiring to see.

[BrotherTobious]

So glad he is out of ICU and wonderful he is in good  spirits hope there is a space ready for him soon.

[Jamoe]

Thanks for the update Jewelz. Great to here the positives despite the long journey ahead. For Gibbo to be so strong for his family and friends is truely inspirational, nothing but my admiration.

[SithAfrikaan]

Thanks for the update Jewelz what a journey, constantly in my thoughts man (Katie as well)

[Chaosphere]

Great news, thanks for sharing.

We are going to arrange a Community Collection of sorts soon to chip in for the lad, hopefully put a smile on his face.

Will post up in the next few days with details