A Preston girl is experiencing freedom for this first time after being given a special rehabilitation device.

12-year-old Brooke Emmington is one of many children at Rainbow Hub benefiting from the iKAN brace, which helps those who find it difficult to stand and/or walk due to various physical and neurological disabilities.

Rainbow Hub, which supports children from across the North West, has been working with Quantum Healthcare Products who supply the brace.

Designed and manufactured to aid professionals treating children below the age of 14, the braces are adjustable, available for a wide user age, have tamper-proof degree locks, and removable handles for ease with sitting and use with walkers or track hoists.

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A spokesperson for Rainbow Hub said: “The iKAN brace breaks down many barriers and gives opportunities that many families thought would not be possible.

“From playing basketball in the garden to hugging your best friend. To some people these are small little things, to others they are a dream come true and, like so many things at Rainbow Hub, they can be life changing.”

Brooke’s mother Phillipa said: “The iKAN brace has given Brooke a different outlook on the world.

“It has enabled her to stand and take steps and feel more free. Her core strength and stepping skills have also improved. I would highly recommend it.”

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