GARY Hayward is to return home for the first time since being viciously attacked by a gang in New Addington more than two years ago.
The father-of-three is set to spend a few hours with his family on Christmas Day as his recovery from devastating head injuries continues.
The 31-year-old is now able to talk, eat unaided and has been able to remember events before the attack in October 2011.
His progress has been so encouraging that his doctors have said he is able to spend time away from his specialist rehabilitation centre in Kent.
His mum, Wendie Hayward, said: "To know he's coming home is a fantastic feeling. I've got him loads of presents and he also has the last two years' worth to open from the Christmases and birthdays he's missed. I can't wait."
Gary is blind in one eye, and barely able to see from the other. While his eyesight is taking longer to recover doctors believe he will walk again.
"He's made a lot of progress," said Wendie.
"We're seeing a lot more of the old Gary now. He's got his sense of humour back and has even started taking the mickey out of the nurses.
"He has so much will to live. He knows it's not his time. He's able to move part of the right side of his body and can walk in the swimming pool and even wheel himself about.
"When I think back to what he was like last Christmas – his head was supported, he couldn't talk and he could barely move – his progress has been incredible."
The family have told Gary basic details of what happened when he and his father were set upon by a large group of youths in Central Parade on October 2, 2011, but they have left out the details to give him the chance to remember on his own.
"He hasn't said anything yet, but I think he will remember because he recalls other things," said Wendie. "He remembers the good things, like the barbecues we had and his children."
His sister, Zowey Hayward, 23, is excited about spending time with Gary over Christmas.
"I can't wait," she said. "It's the best news I've ever had. It's making my Christmas, it really is.
"He's made amazing progress. I can't believe how he is doing. He's getting more and more like Gary each day.
"Every time i go there I see a little change.
"This time last year we were getting ready to make a decision about whether to let him go or not. Now he's so full of life."
After Gary was moved to the rehabilitation centre last year, Wendie moved out of New Addington to Kent in order to be closer to her son. Since the attack she has spent every day by his side.
Gary's doctors have said he may be ready to return home permanently, but not until adaptations are made to Wendie's home.
She had worried her son would not be able to spend Christmas at home because the local council were unable to fit an access ramp in time.
But several generous people in New Addington have donated wood and a temporary ramp should be completed over the weekend.
"I'm so grateful for everyone who has offered to help," said Wendie. "You don't know how much it means to me."
Four people have been arrested for the attack, but no one has been charged.
In August police announced the investigation, which included a £20,000 reward and appeal on Crimewatch, had been shelved because there were "no viable leads".
