Franki Howes (left) with the Saeboflex splint on her hand, with activities co-ordinator Tina Cloarec

IMAGINE not being able to hold a cup of tea or even dress yourself. That was the reality for many members of Headway Jersey until now.

For the first time a life-changing piece of technology has been introduced by the brain injury charity with the support of Health and Social Services which will help people who have lost the use of their arm to begin performing tasks again.

Saebo units are being put on trial for the next six months by some members of Headway Jersey. The units are made for each individual and fits to the arm that has been affected and cost around £650 each.

Headway member Franki Howes (50), who is taking part in the trial, had a stroke on Easter Sunday this year. The sales rep, who used the gym three times a week and did not smoke, wants to return to work as soon as possible.

She said she is now on the way to achieving both of these aims. ‘Saebo has made a huge difference to my life,’ she said. ‘Two months ago I couldn’t even lift my arm away from my body but now my hand is much stronger and I can grasp objects which has helped with day to day tasks such as buttering a piece of toast.’