Our brave children have received bionic arms in time for Christmas – it’s going to change their lives
THREE children receive the best Christmas present — their bionic arms.
Zoey Hampton-Pigeon and Ettie Baker, both eight, and Finn Jarvis, 11 got the limbs on Thursday.
Ettie’s mum Alyse said her daughter screamed when she found out about her new Hero Arm.
Alyse said: “Ettie has always shown so much love for her difference and loves celebrating differences.
“However, as she is getting older, she is becoming increasingly aware of just how different she is.
“She’s becoming more conscious of the stares when out and is sometimes frustrated that she can’t do things the same as everyone else – so having the opportunity to receive a Hero Arm is life-changing for Ettie in so many ways.
“For Ettie, she’s excited about being able to do things like handstands, ride her bike without an adaption and tying her shoes.
“As parents we are excited about these things too, but also all the other ways the Hero Arm will change Ettie’s life.
“We see how strong she is when asked about her limb difference on an almost daily basis and we know it will help her feel more confident so she can continue to embrace her perfectly imperfect self.
“We are absolutely over the moon to be working together with two other children and are really hoping to see them all receive this life changing arm.”
Zoey’s dad Thomas said: “She was jumping up and down, squealing. A Hero Arm will make a massive difference to her independence.”
Finn’s Dad, Ben, said: “Finn is a happy go lucky boy – he is kind, fearless and extremely switched on.
“He is now 11 and about to attend Brymore academy secondary school – an agricultural school.
“With this opportunity of a Big Hero Arm the possibilities for him to excel are endless.
“Finn has always been encouraged to see things as a challenge when his lack of limb has posed a problem. This he has always embraced and conquered, although at times having to compromise, where others have not had to.
“Finn is so excited to be given this opportunity and to see where and how this is going to change his life.”
The limbs are thanks to £180,000 raised by The Big Hero 3 campaign.