Parents of Parnell Square victim say Christmas with their child this year will be ‘special’

The girl, who was five years old at the time of the attack, has been home full-time for three weeks.

The child, who was five years old at the time of the attack, has been home "for good" for the past three weeks.

And in an update to the GoFundMe page set up for the girl, her parents said:

"Our little girl is already used to sleeping in her bed every day, and we have understood how much having a routine helps with her development.

"She is becoming accustomed to being in her stander, playing with her toys, and announcing when something is not okay.

"It is important for her to feel we can understand her sounds and looks. I have managed to put together some activities which are manageable given the home environment."

Signing off the update, they added: "Christmas will be special this year."

Three weeks ago, the family announced that the girl was coming home for good just over a year after the attack.

They wrote at the time: "It is 373 days from the start date to the end date, end date included.

"This is how long it has taken us to come home with our little girl for good.

"I got quite emotional on the drive home because we got to bring her home!

"We have a great amount of homework, and lots of plans. She will take a break and enjoy relaxation, which is a key part of recovery.

"2025 comes with great promise."

Ahead of the anniversary of the attack, the girl's family confirmed that she "cannot move or communicate as she used to" and that "she has to understand the meaning of patience".

"It takes a lot out of her to lift her arms, but she is a warrior and she does it," they explained.

"We strongly believe, despite medical assessments and reports, that she understands everything we say to her. She, like most 6-year-olds, chooses what she wishes to acknowledge."

The family added: "She has made great progress, and we don't wish her to stop. Only time will truly tell. Some people with acquired brain injuries have still shown change and improvement up to 10 years later. We've got time."

You can donate to support her family here.