Blesma Member walks again for the first time in six years

Former Gurkha Pradip Rai, who is paralysed from the chest down, has walked again thanks to robotic exoskeleton technology.

Prad, 48, has used a wheelchair for the last six years, but over summer he was able to trial four different suits at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital. Taking his first steps was an “emotional and happy moment for everyone involved,” he said.

“After paralysis, any form of walking is very good because you get to talk to people at eye level,” said Prad. “It feels good; you can be helpful at home and walking improves your circulation and heart rate, as well as your bowel and bladder function.”

Before the trials began, Prad underwent a number of physical checks, such as having his bone density and upper body strength measured, to make sure he met the necessary criteria.

"It’s like learning to drive a car; you just need to build up your skills with a trainer. For me, it’s hard to stay upright because I have no core function, but that’s the kind of thing you learn"

“Initially, I trialled the Ekso suit for a week with a walking frame before moving onto an Indego suit, then ReWalk, which has hip and knee sensors, and finally Free Walk. Indego was my preferred device as I found it flexible, practical, smooth, and lightweight. I could use it sitting in a wheelchair or walking on a variety of surfaces,” said Prad.