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Australian Story: Dec 2

ABC profiles Ghanim Al Shnen who is being fitted with two robotic arms he will control with his mind.

Monday’s Australian Story profiles Ghanim Al Shnen who, in a world-first procedure, is being fitted with two robotic arms he will control with his mind.

This episode is introduced by NSW Australian of the Year, Dr Munjed Al Muderis.

Late last year Ghanim Al Shnen was working on a building site when a metal bar he was holding struck overhead wires. He suffered catastrophic injuries that resulted in the amputation of both his arms.

Now, in a world-first procedure, he is being fitted with two robotic arms that he will control with his mind. Overseeing this complex process is renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr Munjed al Muderis.

The two men have much in common. Both fled Iraq in fear of their lives, arriving in Australia by boat. Boat spent time in detention centres where they used the time to educate themselves.

“Ghanim has a special place in my heart,” says Dr Al Muderis. “I can relate to Ghanim from my personal story and I think a person that goes through these kinds of difficulties comes out of it stronger.”

To adapt to a life with no arms is profoundly difficult but Ghanim has impressed everyone with his resilience, positivity and good humour.

“You have two choice,” Ghanim says. “Give up or accept this and continue life. Yes, I lost my arms. But I’m still alive.”

He is currently learning to use a robotic left arm and is exceeding all expectations.

Australian Story filmed with Ghanim over six months, following this medical miracle as it unfolded.

Producer: Greg Hassall

8pm Monday December 2 on ABC

2 Responses

  1. That Dr has done and is doing such amazing things…and we had him locked up?
    Makes you wonder how many other such people we are locking out of Australia…just my thought.

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