Richard's Hero Arm - Fully Funded!

Hi! I was born without a right arm. I'm on a journey to become bionic! Growing up, I didn’t like wearing my body powered prosthesis. It was heavy and only the thumb moved, so grasping things was difficult. It was comfortable to go without it, but people would stare sometimes which effected my self esteem.

About 7 years ago, I was fitted with a myoelectric prosthesis, which uses electrodes to detect muscle flexes that open and closes the hand. It’s more mobile than the body powered arm, but heavier and hard to wear for a long time. It's also skin toned, which doesn't let me express my personality. When I wear it, it's a feeling of conformity, like it’s what I HAVE to look like to be accepted. It’s also getting old and once it stops functioning, I lack insurance to get repairs made. I'm on a race against time.

A few years back, I went to an amputee camp and met many others like me, facing similar challenges. The camp offered empowerment and encouragement for everyone; we became a support network. I returned as a counselor, where I work with amputee teens to this day. I want to be the role model they deserve. I want them to see me using a bionic arm in confidence and embracing myself so that they can, too!

I also want to be able to do things that come as second nature to most, like tying shoes without straining my back or overworking my stump muscles. I also like to cook and having an arm with moving fingers and precise grips would help with slicing veggies without getting hurt.

I'm asking for your help in funding the 'Hero Arm' from Open Bionics, a 3-D printed, lightweight prosthesis. This arm comes in many colors so my personality can shine, plus it's more comfortable and would help me do the things I love in a more efficient way. Insurance has been nothing but a dead end, so any support is very much appreciated! All funds will cover the fitting and components of the arm, plus warranty. Thank you for supporting my journey with Open Bionics!