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12 augusti 2009

Young amputee smiles again after Sportacus visits with Össur

Sportacus and Harley

4 year old Harley Slack’s world was torn apart in June when he contracted Meningitis B leading to both his arms and legs being amputated. 

The toddler, who had previously been very fit and active, has been in hospital ever since and is not expected to leave until November at the earliest.  So imagine his delight when his favourite superhero, Sportacus, from TV show LazyTown dropped in to visit him before his latest skin graft operation on Friday.

A hospital worker close to the boy fought back tears and said: "I don't think I've seen Harley smile before”, as Sportacus performed tricks such as handstands with one hand, and press-ups with Harley's dad, Adam, on his back.

Ossur representative Richard Hirons joined Sportacus for the visit

Sportacus was accompanied by Richard Hirons from Össur who took a gift certificate for a pair of Flex-Run Jr. feet.  The feet are junior versions of those used by Oscar Pistorius, who aims to become the first amputee to compete against able-bodied competitors at the London Olympics, and are specially designed for youngsters to use in sporting activity.  The feet will be supplied free of charge and in conjunction with his Prosthetic care-givers when Harley is ready to receive them.

Harley’s parents Adam and Sam launched a fundraising campaign after Harley's amputations with donations now totaling more than £400,000.

Former pub manager Adam, 21, commented: "What a day. We can't believe the offer of these limbs for him."
Sportacus also took a teddy donated by Team Össur member Sarah Reinertsen.  The “SarahBear“, is an amputated teddy bear which helps children understand and explain living with amputation.  Sarah is famous in the USA as being the first amputee to complete the notorious Ironman triathlon. 

Sportacus and Harley smile for the camera

Sportacus, who comes from the same native Iceland as Prosthetic manufacturer Össur, told Harley: "We have a friend who makes fantastic legs so you can run fast and jump. It's very nice to have you as a friend, Harley, and one day I will play football with you."

Harley’s Mum Sam, 23, said: "This has cheered him up. Harley watches LazyTown all the time. Sportacus has been brilliant with him."

 

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