July 20th, 9pm update:

Well, true to form, Matt Thomas is kicking some serious butt in rehab therapy. He pushed himself hard today and accomplished several new goals: He stayed up in his wheelchair for almost 3 hours, learned how to use his new power wheelchair and held himself up on the therapy mat using his arm strength. And to top it off, he still had enough energy to take a little evening stroll outside the hospital via his new power wheelchair. Tonight was the first time Matt has been outside since the accident. Yeah, FREEDOM!!!

The power wheelchair will be a huge benefit to Matt. It allows him more independence and dignity.

The rehab therapists say that Matt is ahead of the game and making strides. They explained that most patients need to build up their muscle before the therapists can really start to work with them. But since Matt is a young, strong guy with great upper body strength; they are able to start right in with the hard stuff.

Matt can’t thank you all enough for your continued love and support. He wants to be sure that you all know,”you are all freaking awesome!”