Robotic arm helps ex-paratrooper feed himself again after 17 years
The technology is controlled with a chin-operated joystick
A former paratrooper from Hampshire, who was paralysed in an accident, has told how he can feed himself for the first time in 17 years after being given a robotic arm.
Military veteran Jon Noble is only the second person in the UK to own a 'JACO' assistive robotic arm, which is mounted on a motorised wheelchair.
The 38-year-old, from Havant, was badly injured in a road traffic accident in 2003, which left him as a tetraplegic.
"I can start to see things opening up again for me now."
Jon said: "I cannot wait to hand my dad a pint for the first time and socialise with friends who I have shied away from since leaving service.
"The 'JACO' arm will mean I have more choice over my own life and it's going to help me re-engage in life and interact.
The device can be controlled with a chin-operated joystick on Jon's wheelchair and features movements corresponding to his shoulder, elbow, and wrist.
The robotic arm was paid for by six military charities.
Jon said: "I’m so happy and privileged to get this technology and for the military charities to help me out with funding."