Santa’s got a new little helper this year.
Mike Tindall, a 67-year-old retired US Navy veteran, has become the first professional Santa Claus In the world to sport a bionic arm – and it’s the perfect color too.
After a work accident in 1994 caused his left arm to be amputated, the former airplane mechanic eventually found a new job – Playing Father Christmas and bringing happiness to your communityThe 67-year-old is accompanied by wife Cindy, who plays Mrs. Claus.
Thirty years later, the selfless Sinterklaas is expanding his reach — with a brand new Hero Arm, an advanced, 3D-printed multi-grip prostheses manufactured by UK-based company Open Bionics, SWNS reports.
While this man from Memphis, Tennessee has never let his condition stop him from living his life, he admitted that his seasonal job has certainly presented a certain number of challenges over the years.
“I’m looking for something that is easy to use and can help me when I use distributing gifts, accepting letters and meeting familiesPhilanthropist Pere Noel explained.
“When I first saw the red design, I knew it was perfect – it matches my Santa suit! I really appreciate the simplicity of the hand controls,” he shared.
“It’s lighter and more comfortable than what I’ve used before. I love how easy it is to switch between grips without any hassle.”
“When the kids saw the flashing lights on my bionic arm I told them it was Santa Tracker For Mrs. Claus so she can see where I am,” Tindall laughed.
“They thought it was great.”
The light hand is equipped with sensors designed to read muscle movements and convert them into bionic finger movements. According to the company, it is easy to control and completely customizable.
Tindall traveled to Open Bionics’ Texas clinic for her fitting — and tested out her new accessory by grabbing a cup of hot chocolate, dunking a cookie, and checking off her naughty and nice list.
Samantha Payne is co-founder of Open Bionics – she said the company is thrilled to be a part of making Christmas special for so many people.
“It has been so much fun helping Santa’s mission of bringing joy and cheer to children during the holidays,” he said.
“We are so pleased that Hero Arm is able to help Santa with all of his two-handed tasks and holiday preparations. hopefully, This year we are on the good list,
