Archie Barton, with his new legs
A THREE-YEAR-OLD boy who lost both legs after getting meningitis took his first steps on new prosthetic limbs.
Archie Barton lost his legs due to severe septicaemia after being struck down by the disease when he was 18 months old.
He has undergone major surgery after also losing a number of fingers, part of an ear and the tip of his nose. He also has a severe visual impairment.
His mother, Nicky Barton, said after months in hospital he was making “amazing” progress and the hi-tech limbs are enabling him to walk with minimal support.
Mrs Barton, 42, from Plymouth, Devon, said: “He can stand and balance on his own and he’s kicking out with minimal support to take steps.
“He’s nearly there on his own – he can walk when I give him a little support on his hips.
“It’s like the legs belong to him.
“They are more flexible and you can pick him up like a normal child and put him on your hip.”
The lightweight legs cost £12,500.
