Turning 25 is a milestone for anyone - but for John Lawas, it marked something even more profound: his first trip abroad since a devastating road traffic accident ten years ago left him with a complex brain injury.

With determination, optimism and the support of CHD Living’s Care at Home Complex Care team, John has made extraordinary progress. From once being PEG-fed and unable to walk, he has steadily rebuilt his independence, regaining strength, communication skills and confidence. Thanks to structured therapy, consistency in care, and his own motivation, he has progressed from being nil by mouth to enjoying level six meals - almost back to a full diet.

Recently, CHD Living helped turn one of John’s biggest dreams into reality: celebrating his 25th birthday in front of the Eiffel Tower.

John and his dedicated 24-hour care team set off via the Eurotunnel for a week-long adventure, staying in a specially adapted farmhouse in Normandy. The itinerary was packed with meaning – visits to Omaha Beach and Mont Saint-Michel, a day of magic at Disneyland Paris, and, on 24 June, a milestone moment as John was photographed beaming in front of the Eiffel Tower, balloon in hand, radiating pure joy.

placeholder image — John's 25th birthday

“On Tuesday, June 24, I celebrated my 25th birthday in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris - a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said John. “Watching the city lights from up there, surrounded by a completely new environment and atmosphere, felt absolutely surreal. It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

Reflecting on the trip, John shared: “I explored the historic region of Normandy, where I visited the deeply moving Musee Memorial – it gave me a powerful perspective on history. I also wandered through the medieval remains of La Barbacane et Porte des Champs, enjoyed the peaceful Clecy Bridge and treated myself at La Pommeraye. Disneyland was magical - I relived my childhood seeing Mickey Mouse, Princess Elsa, and all the characters from Frozen. The fireworks made me feel alive.”

John’s story reflects the very heart of CHD Living’s approach to complex care: going beyond clinical needs to help people lead full, meaningful lives. Every element of the trip - from accessible accommodation and travel logistics to tailored medical support - was carefully planned and delivered by the care team who know John best.

This wasn’t a one-off. Over the past few years, John has enjoyed several supported holidays across the UK with his team, including trips to Cornwall, Wales and Butlins - each one building his confidence, independence and readiness for something bigger. Paris was the next step in that journey.

“I travelled via the Eurotunnel, which was a unique experience in itself,” said John. “Paris gave me memories I’ll cherish forever, and I feel so lucky to have experienced it all.”

His care package, delivered through CHD Living’s specialist Complex Care branch of their Care at Home service, includes two carers with him at all times - providing round-the-clock support that is entirely person-centred. For John and his team, care is not just about stability, it is about living well, and creating space for joy, travel and new experiences.

Nicole Fitzsimons, Group Branch Manager at CHD Living Care at Home, said: “Supporting someone to live their life in full - to travel, to explore, to feel joy - is what great care is all about. For John, this trip wasn’t just a holiday. It was a celebration of how far he has come and the life he is building, on his terms. I couldn’t be prouder of the team who supported him, and of John for continuing to inspire us every day.”

John’s journey is also a reflection of CHD Living’s wider expertise in complex and specialist care. As an NHS-preferred provider for acquired brain injury and neurological rehabilitation, the organisation supports clients across Surrey and beyond with advanced, nurse-led home care and residential rehabilitation - tailored to both clinical outcomes and quality of life.