Rupy’s life changed instantly in August 2011 when she fractured her spine in a horrific car accident. In the aftermath, socializing and attending school using a wheelchair was overwhelming. The once vibrant young girl began losing hope. But a new robotic research project at Kessler Foundation changed those odds and improved her recovery.

 

After a desperate search for the best treatment for her daughter, Rupy’s mother, Rupali, learned about a new program at Kessler using the LokomatPro v6, a robotic-assisted walking device. This state-of-the-art device is used with patients who’ve had spinal cord injuries or other neurological damage.

 

Rupy was an ideal candidate for the Lokomat—a machine that mimics walking. Rupy wears a harness that suspends her over a treadmill, while robotic legs keep her upright and train her own legs in a simulated walking pattern. Kessler Foundation was the first center in the United States to receive the LokomatPro v6. Its unique design allows for more natural hip movement, adjustable weight and pressure on her feet, varying degrees of assistance, and virtual reality feedback. The goal of the repetitive exercise is to retrain the muscles needed to walk and awaken nerve activity, all while minimizing further complications of paralysis, including decreased bone density and muscle strength, poor circulation and pulmonary function, chronic pain, and pressure sores.

 

At first, it was hard for Rupy to use the Lokomat. Everything hurt and her feet dragged because she had lost the strength to flex her muscles. She needed the full support of the device to keep her upright and moving. Within three weeks, Rupy and her mom began to notice little improvements that made huge differences—pain decreased, while the muscles in her legs and feet strengthened.

 

Rupy was elated. And so was her mother. “From that point on, Rupy saw that she had the ability to regain function and wanted to keep going,” said Rupali.

 

Now, Rupy is leaving her wheelchair behind. By May, she could comfortably take steps using a walker or by holding onto someone’s hand. Amazingly, Rupy can even climb upstairs to her bedroom independently, as long as she holds onto a railing. As she regained strength, therapists encouraged her to walk further. These days, Rupy actively walks with very little assistance from Lokomat. You can see the progress in her face, which glows all the time with a contagious smile.

 

Three times a week after school, Rupy and her mother continue to make the hour-long drive to Kessler for two hours of therapy. Despite all she has endured, Rupy manages to keep up with schoolwork, maintaining an A average in her advanced classes.

 

Rupy continues to improve and work hard. As her mom explained, “When Rupy started walking, her confidence came back. All I want is for her to be as independent as possible, enjoying everything that young teenagers enjoy, do well in school, and feel successful in life.”