A Ross-on-Wye man is now able to operate his electric recliner chair despite losing the use of his hands. David Rowe has motor neurone disease (MND), a progressive disease that attacks the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This means that messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting.

MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe. However, not all symptoms necessarily happen to everyone and it is unlikely they will all develop at the same time, or in any specific order. For David, being unable to operate the hand controls of his recliner chair was not only a dramatic physical change but also a loss of independence.

Step forward Remap Herefordshire, the charity with engineers who make things happen. David’s occupational therapist Meg Linklater, knew about the innovative devices Remap had made in the past so contacted them to see what they could do for David. With a progressive disease like MND time is of the essence and Terry Tomlin, who is one of a dozen volunteers with Remap Herefordshire, lost no time in analysing the requirements.

It was soon evident that specialist electronic expertise would be required so he contacted colleagues Tom Bradley and Martin Davitt in Remap Gloucestershire to help out. Between them, they were able to construct a plug-in device that allowed David to raise or lower the chair simply by placing his feet on some special strips; one for up, the other for down.

The device was so successful that it has transformed David’s life: “It’s given me a lot more independence; so much so that the kids think I’m going up in the world!” he joked. His wife, Hilary, agreed: “Being able to do things for yourself becomes more and more important as you get less able; it’s been a godsend.” Remap may be able to help you by providing a tailor-made solution to a problem that you have. Also, the group is always on the lookout for more volunteers who can offer an inventive approach to challenges such as this; contact them on 01432 272244.