NewsFundraising Reds fan realises Anfield dream thanks to robotic arm
An avid Liverpool supporter realised a lifelong dream at Anfield last week as part of a fundraising campaign for a life-changing piece of equipment.
Adam Kent, 25, is living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a degenerative muscle wasting condition that affects his movement – including severely limiting the ability to move his arms.
He has always dreamed of lifting his football scarf at Anfield as he cheers on the team, and that wish became a reality during the 2-0 Champions League win over FC Porto.
LFC worked together with Midlands-based health tech company Rahana Life to give Adam the chance to trial a JACO assistive robotic arm and live out his dream inside the Reds’ stadium.
The trial saw the cutting-edge robotic arm integrated into Adam’s wheelchair, allowing him to personally control the movements of its shoulder, elbow, wrist and gripping fingers – and thereby proudly hold aloft his scarf.
“The trial of the arm will allow Adam to both achieve his Reds dream and also give him the taste of independence in the hope that the money will be raised to allow Adam to gain that independence full-time and not just for one day,” said Hannah Cagliarini, his sister.
Adam, who is suffering progressive heart failure, is urgently fundraising to purchase a JACO robotic arm permanently, which would enable him to become more independent, try new activities and build precious memories with his family.
He intends for the robotic arm to be passed on and used by other young people living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in the future.
To date, Adam has raised around 40 per cent of his £50,000 target and supporters wishing to help his cause can make a donation by visiting his JustGiving page.