How the Big Hero 3 Campaign is Empowering Children with Life-Changing Prosthetics
This Christmas, three young lives are brimming with joy, thanks to an extraordinary gift—bionic arms. Ettie Baker (8), Zoey Hampton-Pigeon (8), and Finn Jarvis (11) received these transformative devices. The inspiring efforts of the Big Hero 3 campaign made this possible. Sarah Lockey founded the campaign. She is a devoted mother driven by her own daughter’s journey. The campaign supports families in fundraising for advanced prosthetic limbs.
Celebrating Differences
For Ettie Baker, this gift is more than a prosthetic arm; it’s an opportunity to embrace her individuality and thrive. Her mother, Alyse, shared that Ettie has always celebrated her differences. Yet, she has become more aware of societal stares as she grows older. It has also highlighted the challenges she faces. With her new Hero Arm, Ettie is thrilled to pursue activities. She loves riding a bike. She also enjoys tying her shoes and even performing handstands.
“As parents, we’re over the moon,” Alyse said. “This arm doesn’t just open doors for Ettie—it transforms her entire world.”
Independence and Adventure
Zoey Hampton-Pigeon’s family also rejoiced at the news. Her father, Thomas, described the moment she found out: “She was jumping up and down squealing!” Zoey, an adventurous and spirited girl, has always tackled life head-on despite challenges. With her new bionic arm, Zoey looks ahead to mastering skills like using a jump rope. She also plans on tying her shoelaces. These skills will bring newfound independence to her daily life.
Endless Possibilities
For 11-year-old Finn Jarvis, the Hero Arm shows limitless potential. Known as “the boss of the family,” Finn was born without one hand. This was due to circumstances surrounding a car accident his mother experienced before his birth. His father, Ben, described him as fearless and ambitious, eager to embrace the opportunities the Hero Arm will give.
The Power of Community
The Big Hero 3 campaign exemplifies the power of collaboration. The Open Bionics Foundation, The Worshipful Company of The Glovers, and Foresight Group contributed to the campaign. An anonymous donor also made a contribution. Together, they raised over $50,000. These funds enabled the families to access the Hero Arm. It is a cutting-edge, lightweight prosthetic. It is designed for people with below-elbow limb differences. Manufactured in Britain, the device combines functionality with empowering aesthetics.
A Mother’s Mission
Sarah Lockey’s journey began when her daughter, Tilly, lost her hand to meningitis at 15 months old. Determined to help Tilly regain her abilities, Sarah eventually founded the Big Hero 3 campaign to help other families. Now in its fourth iteration, the campaign provides financial support. It also fosters a sense of unity among families facing similar challenges.
“It’s incredible to see these children gain,” Sarah said. “This is my favorite thing to do—helping families come together and seeing kids get life-changing opportunities.”
A Brighter Future
Ettie, Zoey, and Finn are exploring their new capabilities. Their stories remind us of the resilience and strength within every child. This holiday season, the gift of a Hero Arm stands for more than advanced technology. It is a testament to the power of hope. It signifies determination and community.
Source:
- https://youtu.be/GByR85LTgCo?si=tCwByHDTlxvTrmkh
- https://www.foxnews.com/health/christmas-gift-kids-missing-limbs-receive-bionic-arms-amazing
- https://chatgpt.com/
- https://readloud.net/