Mo Ali, now 40 years old, suffered a horrific injury at the age of six when he lost four fingers due to a meat grinder accident. This incident left Mo with significant disabilities and led to him being bullied. Mo struggled to find prosthetic options that suited him over the years. Eventually, he was fitted with 3D-printed prosthetic fingers, called the Hero Gauntlet, by British robotics company OpenBionics. The custom-made gauntlet has changed Mo’s life, allowing him to dress himself and have a better grip on things, especially his beloved bicycles. It has given him a new lease on life and instilled confidence in him, allowing him to walk down the road without feeling the need to hide his disability.
Mo expressed his love for bikes and how the new Hero Gauntlet has enabled him to have a proper grip on handlebars, enhancing his biking experience. Previously, Mo struggled with prosthetic options provided by the NHS, such as a cumbersome hook operated by the shoulder, that hindered his movements. The 3D-printed Hero Gauntlet is a space-age partial hand prosthetic that was custom-made for Mo using cutting-edge technology like 3D scanning, printing, and modeling. This innovative technology has allowed Mo to have a functional and comfortable prosthetic that has significantly improved his quality of life and boosted his confidence.
The Hero Gauntlet not only benefits individuals like Mo who have suffered injuries but it also offers hope to those born without fingers to regain hand functionality. OpenBionics is hoping that this advanced prosthetic solution will be made available to other people with limb differences on the NHS. The co-founder of OpenBionics, Samantha Payne, emphasized the joy it brings to see the engineering success of the Hero Gauntlet positively impact Mo’s life both physically and emotionally. The prosthetic’s design and functionalities have the potential to change the lives of many people with limb differences, providing them with comfort and function for everyday wear.
Mo’s journey from struggling with his disabilities and prosthetic options to finding the perfect solution in the Hero Gauntlet showcases the impact of technological advancements in the field of prosthetics. The 3D-printed fingers have not only improved Mo’s ability to perform daily tasks but have also rekindled his passion for biking. The story of Mo Ali serves as an inspiring example of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of technology in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with physical disabilities. It highlights the importance of innovation in creating inclusive and empowering solutions for people with limb differences, ultimately helping them lead more fulfilling and independent lives.
