Fingers Lost, Music Found: The Grace Matthews Story

Nineteen-year-old Grace Matthews, from Norwich, has achieved national recognition after winning Channel 4's The Piano show. Matthews contracted meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia at just four years old, leading to the amputation of her fingers and lower legs. Inspired by her music therapist at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, she began her musical journey. Initially treated at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital before being transferred for life-saving surgery, Matthews has shown remarkable determination.

She now plays a traditional upright piano daily, skillfully using her palm, half a thumb, and the stub of her little finger to hit the keys. Matthews describes her playing as a natural adaptation, stating that she customizes songs to suit her abilities rather than altering herself to fit the music. Her triumph on the show was not primarily driven by career aspirations but by a desire to prove her capabilities.