Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation patients are walking again thanks to innovative robotic suit donated by Chalmers Foundation

(FREDERICTON) – Patients at Horizon’s Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (SCCR) are benefiting from an innovative robotic suit purchased by the Chalmers Foundation. The EksoNR Robotic Exoskeleton (Exoskeleton) allows patients with lower extremity weakness or paralysis to walk again, aiding them in their rehabilitation.

The Exoskeleton is a wearable suit that allows individuals to stand and walk on level surfaces by powering or assisting movement at the hips and knees. Utilizing battery-powered motors, the Exoskeleton can be programmed to assist patients according to their treatment plan.

Steve Whitters of Rothesay is currently using the suit as part of his rehabilitation after suffering from a fall, which resulted in the temporary loss of the use of his legs and forearms.

“Using the Exoskeleton for the first time was liberating,” said Mr. Whitters. “It allowed me to stand on my own and take steps. I’ve now used it over 100 times, and it’s helped improve my stamina, step length, and fluidity. At first, my steps were robotic, but over time, they’ve become more natural.”

To hear more about Steve’s rehabilitation journey and how the Exoskeleton and SCCR have helped him, you can watch his patient testimonial and read his story.

“Innovative technology, such as this, is an important part of health care in New Brunswick,” said Dr. Colleen O’Connell, SCCR Medical Director and Research Chief. “Robotics and other applied technologies are increasingly being used in rehabilitation medicine and Horizon is proud to be able to offer state-of-the-art technology to our patients while they’re embarking on their rehabilitation journey.”

The suit is one of only two in Atlantic Canada, the other being owned by the University of New Brunswick (UNB). Through the research partnership between SCCR and UNB, patients have been able to utilize the device during their rehabilitation since 2017 as part of studying robotic-assisted walking feasibility and outcomes.

Having a dedicated device at the SCCR allows the team access to robotic walking therapy in routine practice for both inpatients and outpatients and helps build expertise and experience for the therapists. It also allows patients access to innovative treatments like this one.

The Chalmers Foundation raised funds for the suit in 2022-23.

“The generosity of our donors has once again made a life-changing difference for patients at the SCCR,” said Charles A. Diab, CEO of the Chalmers Foundation. “The EksoNR Robotic Exoskeleton is more than just groundbreaking technology: it’s a source of hope, mobility, and independence for those on their rehabilitation journey. Thanks to our community of supporters, we are ensuring that patients throughout New Brunswick get the best possible care right here in Fredericton.”

About Horizon’s Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (SCCR)

The SCCR serves New Brunswick residents of all ages who are diagnosed with complex neurological or neuromuscular disease or injury. The goal of SCCR is, by including patients as part of the team, to achieve as much independence and self-direction for the patient as possible.

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