How’s Matthew Doing?
It’s a question we’re often asked. The honest answer?
“Grand” or “Great.”
Both would be fair responses, but the reality is that Matthew is a young man with severe autism and very complex additional needs. In practical terms, this means he needs full time care and benefits from an individualised approach to each day, helping him have some “normal” experiences and ensuring his days are as positive, fulfilling, and enjoyable as possible. The help that Matthew needs, outside of his state daycare, is only possible thanks to the generosity of all the people who donate their time and money.
What Does That Involve?
The state-provided daycare service, which helps him greatly, only provides some of the support for Matt, he also needs exercise, stimulation and engagement with his surroundings. This can only happen with skilled experts who can bring him out and allow him to experience normal activities in the outside world that most of us can take for granted. These experiences bring immense value to Matt’s life allowing him to connect with his surroundings, enjoy himself and make the most of each day. Without this care & support Matthew regresses and his challenging behaviours become much more pronounced.
Matthew’s Challenges
Of course, Matthew’s life has some very serious challenges. Matthew needs constant care and stimulation. He regularly experiences periods of anxiety and behaviours that can be difficult for him and us to control. These range from repetitive behaviours to heartbreaking episodes of self-injurious behaviour.
While the frequency of these challenges can change over time, they remain part of Matthew’s daily reality. They are something that we must live with and cope as best we can. The carers who look after Matthew help him to be more relaxed and happier, which has a direct impact on the frequency of his challenging behaviour. Without the carers supporting Matthew, his life would be much more difficult.
The People Who Make a Difference
As a family, we do everything we can to support Matthew. We strive to be his helpers, companions, advocates, and friends. However, the reality is that providing the level of support he needs requires significant expertise.
That is why the carers who spend time with Matthew are such an important part of his life.
Lorcan, Kate, Antoinette, and Eya are among Matthew’s favourite people. Each has brought their own kindness, values, and energy into his world. They have welcomed Matthew into their homes, their lives, and their daily activities, creating opportunities and experiences that help keep Matthew in a good place, without them his life would be much more challenging and difficult for him.
For Matthew, being included in everyday life is invaluable. It is these meaningful connections and shared experiences that help him be calm and more relaxed.
So, How Is Matthew Doing?
When people ask, “How’s Matthew doing?”, we find it difficult to answer with anything other than “Great.”
Unfortunately, not because every day is easy, each day we wake up not knowing what challenges to expect, but because with the help from the funds raised by you, Matthew can experience a life filled with friendship and care.
How Is This Made Possible?
Behind the scenes, an incredible community comes together to support Matthew.
Through the dedication of the Mighty Matthew Cycle team, a remarkable network of volunteers has grown into what can only be described as a finely tuned orchestra of generosity and goodwill.
This community extends far beyond Clontarf and beyond county boundaries. Every year, supporters come together to cycle in Matthew’s name, proudly wear the iconic Mighty Matthew jersey, and raise vital funds that help make these life-enhancing experiences possible.
Without these funds Matthew’s life would be considerably different and his challenges, repetitive behaviours and self-injurious episodes be more frequent and harder to manage.
Your kindness, commitment, and support have had a profound impact on Matthew’s life and on our family.
We will be forever grateful for the time, effort, generosity, and thoughtfulness shown to Matthew.
Thank you.
Kevin, Lesa and Family
