Bionic Arms Bring Joyful Christmas to Three Young Adventurers

Quick Smiles:

• Three children received bionic arms as a remarkable Christmas gift.
• The Big Hero 3 campaign raised £20,000 to make this possible.
• Each child is eager to explore new activities with their Hero Arms.

Three young adventurers, Zoey Hampton-Pigeon, Finley Jarvis, and Colette Baker, were given what they joyfully described as “the best Christmas present in the world”—their very own bionic arms.

This incredible gift was made possible through the efforts of Sarah Lockey, whose own daughter, Tilly, lost both hands to meningitis. Tilly now thrives with her Hero Arms and, alongside her mom, leads the annual Big Hero 3 campaign.

This initiative selects three children across the UK to receive a Hero Arm, thanks to the Open Bionics Foundation.

The Hero Arm is celebrated as “the world’s most affordable advanced multi-grip prosthetic arm,” offering a combination of advanced technology and lightweight design. Available in more than 801 locations across the US and throughout the UK, it serves both adults and children aged 8 and above who are below-elbow amputees.

This year’s Big Hero 3 campaign successfully raised £20,000, with additional support from two charitable foundations and an anonymous donor. This effort covered the £40,000 needed to provide Zoey, Finley, and Colette with their life-changing prosthetics.

Colette’s mom, Alyse, shared her daughter’s excitement: “For Ettie, she’s excited about being able to do things like handstands, ride her bike without an adaption, and tying her shoes.”

Zoey, an active participant in gymnastics and swimming, was born with a missing limb discovered during an ultrasound. Her father, Thomas, expressed how a Hero Arm will greatly enhance her independence, especially in activities like jump rope.

Finley Jarvis, born without a hand due to a car accident involving his mother, is described by his father, Ben, as “a happy-go-lucky boy” who is eager to explore new possibilities at Brymore Academy secondary school.

Sarah Lockey and Tilly hope to continue this inspiring campaign next year, welcoming any donors who wish to contribute.

“It is just incredible for three children to benefit and for their families all to meet and fundraise together,” Lockey remarked.

Feel free to share this uplifting story of community and innovation with others!

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