Cape Town man to get robot suit

2012-11-02 10:25

A Cape Town man will get a ReWalk robotic suit, similar to this used by Radi Kaiuf. (Oded Balilty, AP)

Cape Town - A paralysed Camps Bay man is set to become the first African to use a robotic device called the ReWalk suit - which will help him walk.

Andrew Merryweather, 30, was left paralysed from the waist down six years ago after he was assaulted by drunken youths at a garage, the Cape Argus reported.

Merryweather said the suit would bring spontaneity back into his life and generally make life easier for him.

"I won't have to worry about pre-planning where I go," said Merryweather.

The R696 750 suit is made by Israeli company Argo Medical Technologies and consists of synthetic materials and four battery-powered motors for steering knee and hip movements.

The motors are controlled by a computer and sensors, which use complex algorithms. Crutches are needed for balance.

"Although I won't be walking up the mountain with the suit, I will be able to walk on the beach," Merryweather said.

Users undergo intensive one-week training on how to use the suit.

A benefit concert, Step by Step, will be held at City Hall on Saturday to help raise funds for the suit.
 

- News24