Powerful robotic arm saves lives

A robotic arm is currently working to save the lives of children affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Head down to Sydney's Circular Quay and you'll find The Most Powerful Arm. A robotic construction of bamboo and aluminium, it doesn't look particularly strong — but this arm is trying to save lives.

Save Our Sons is working to raise AU$1.75 million to go towards research, clinical trials and family support for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, an incurable degenerative condition that affects one in 3500 boys, with an average life expectancy of around 25 years of age. If the Australian Government could match the funds from Save Our Sons, more could be done to help these boys.

The robotic arm isn't lifting weights or holding back earthquakes: it's signing a petition on behalf of the citizens of Australia, both to request the matched donation and a Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy National Policy. It's using the last known handwriting sample of 19-year-old Jacob Lancaster, who last year lost the ability to write due to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

If you wish to sign the petition or to donate to the Duchenne Foundation, or to find out more about the campaign, visit the Most Powerful Arm website.