What a heartening endeavour at the Mater hospital

Sir, – It was heartening to read Katie Mellett’s article (‘You don’t realise how much independence you’ve lost until you gain it back’, Health, March 27th) regarding a pioneering programme at the Mater hospital that offers life-changing surgery and rehabilitation to some of those who have suffered spinal cord injuries.

The collaboration between teams in the hospital has enabled 12 people in Ireland to gain significant hand and arm movement. thus giving them back some of their independence. As hand surgeon Gráinne Colgan stated, “When you have nothing, a little becomes a lot”.

Congratulations to everyone involved in this endeavour at Mater hospital for their skills and dedication and for giving hope to some who might otherwise have none. – Yours, etc,

Clare Balfe,

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Phibsborough,

Dublin 7.