Mike Swainger

Hull Artificial Limb Centre, Sykes Street, HU2 8BB

In 2012, Hull resident Mike Swainger became the first person in the UK to be fitted with a bionic hand. Previous to this, the technology was more often used abroad or in the private sector. In 1992, Mike was 13 years old when he lost his right arm and leg whilst playing near a railway line in East Hull. He was eventually fitted with artificial limbs, but these were not easy to use because Mike was still growing. With his bionic hand, Mike can now do many day to day activities which are normally taken for granted, such as shaking hands with others and holding his daughter’s hand when walking down the street.