Play ball with his children and move around public places

Play ball with his children and move around public places - open-source assistive technology challenge by the Restart community

The challenge

The chronic pain from which David suffers causes his body to respond to any contact with his legs at the level of unbearable pain. In both legs the pain reaches up to the knee, and he (moves around) in a wheelchair. As a result, his legs tremble with pain and sometimes straighten/jump. David needs a shield for his legs which will provide him with a sense of confidence to play ball with his children and to move around without fear in public places. The shield should allow ample space for the legs, be strong enough to absorb the impact of a ball or person, but also be able to open quickly so that he can move between chairs, and be easy and convenient to carry.

Who it helps

David Leitner, age 41, made aliyah at the age of 20 and enlisted as a lone soldier in Sayeret Maglan. David was injured in the leg during training and continued to serve for another 9 months. As a result of the injury, David developed a neurological problem called CRPS, which causes chronic pain. The pain began in his right foot and a few years later spread to his left leg as well. Despite the pain, David completed his doctoral studies at Bar-Ilan University and is currently studying and teaching strategy and tactics. David is married and has three children.

Project details

An open-source assistive technology project shared free by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

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