Teenager from Pocklington receives ‘life-changing’ Hero Arm

Lexi Medforth, 13, from Pocklington, was born missing her left hand after being diagnosed with amniotic band syndrome while in the womb.

The condition occurs when bands of tissue in the uterus wrap around the baby and restrict blood flow – causing limb loss and abnormalities.

Her mum Becki said: “We found out at the 18-week scan that she would be born missing her left hand, and while it was a shock and left us worried about how she would manage, Lexi has grown into a strong and inspiring young girl who approaches life with courage and creativity.”

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Lexi developed a love for football and art but faced “more noticeable” challenges as she grew.  

The teen began exploring her options, and after trialling a prosthesis supplied by the NHS, decided to push forward with her dream of using a bionic Hero Arm.

“I have been doing things I could only dream of now I have two hands” (Image: Supplied)

The multi-grip arm is developed by Open Bionics and is equipped with special sensors which detect upper arm muscle movements, allowing patients like Lexi to use it for everyday activities.

The Hero Arm is offered on the NHS and despite meeting the necessary criteria, Lexi faced a years-long waiting list.

Becki said: “Lexi found this news really difficult.

“At the time, each hospital visit had left her feeling deflated and frustrated, questioning whether she would ever feel ‘normal’.”

“So far, I have used it to brush my teeth, have a drink, eat a slice of pizza and even to shake someone’s hand” (Image: Supplied)

Amid the frustration, Lexi’s family came across The Open Bionics Foundation – a charity which works alongside people hoping to receive a bionic arm.

The charity informed Lexi that if £20,000 could be raised, she would be able to have her arm built and moulded privately before Christmas.

Social media fundraisers – Hand It To Lexi – were set up alongside a dedicated GoFundMe page – and the Pocklington community came together to make Lexi’s dream a reality.

She received her Hero Pro – an upgrade to the previous Hero Arm – after visiting the Open Bionics clinic in Bristol on Wednesday (February 25).

Speaking about this, she said: “I have only had the arm for four days, but it has already been life-changing for me.

“I have been doing things I could only dream of now I have two hands.

“I know it will take some time to get used to but so far, I have used it to brush my teeth, have a drink, eat a slice of pizza and even to shake someone’s hand.

“I can’t thank my mum and dad enough for all the organising they did to raise the money, as well as all the support from family and friends.

“The people of Pocklington have been amazing at getting behind the fundraising events – not just with donating money but goods and volunteering as well.

“Even stranger further afield have helped – so thank you to everyone for making my dreams come true.”