Born with Poland Syndrome, a congenital disorder that prevented the full development of his right forearm and pectoral muscles, David Aguilar Amphoux faced significant physical challenges from a young age. However, rather than letting this condition limit him, David channeled his innate creativity and determination to transform his obstacles into opportunities. At just nine years old, he was given his first set of LEGO® bricks, sparking an idea that would change the trajectory of his life. Over the next nine years, piece by piece, David meticulously constructed a fully functioning prosthetic arm using LEGO® TECHNIC – an impressive feat that would earn him a Guinness World Record in 2019.
This initial success was merely the beginning of David’s journey. Driven by a passion to improve access to affordable prosthetics for people around the world, he went on to study bioengineering at the International University of Catalonia. Throughout his studies, David continued to push the boundaries of what was possible, designing and building innovative LEGO® prosthetics that adapted to the unique needs of each user. Adapting the rigid, square-shaped LEGO® bricks to the rounded contours of the human arm proved to be a significant challenge, requiring meticulous planning and “out of the box” thinking. Yet, David persevered, leveraging his deep understanding of the LEGO® system to create prosthetic solutions that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to wear.
David’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and determination. By transforming his personal challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation, he has not only improved his own quality of life but has also inspired and empowered countless others facing similar obstacles. As he continues to advocate for a more inclusive world and push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of prosthetics, David’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging individuals to embrace their unique circumstances and use them as a springboard for extraordinary achievements.
Original Story : https://www.euronews.com/culture/2024/07/01/watch-how-the-andorran-inventor-built-the-worlds-first-functional-lego-prosthesis
