3D Printing Prosthetic Limbs: How 'Project Daniel' Is Revolutionizing Healthcare In South Sudan

Melanie Ehrenkranz | International Digital Times | January 14, 2014

Daniel Omar was 14-years-old when he lost both of his arms in a bomb attack in the Nuba Mountains of South Sudan. Fast forward two years. Thanks to the innovations of California-based research firm Not Impossible Labs as well as the advancements in 3D printing, Daniel now has his left-arm prosthetic and is currently helping to print prostheses for others. Not Impossible's "Project Daniel" is transforming lives and modernizing healthcare by using 3D printing to provide hands and arms for amputees in war-torn Sudan.

Not only has Not Impossible Labs given Daniel his self-reliance and independence back, but it has built the first ever 3D printed prosthetic lab and school to profoundly improve the lives of other amputees. Located in the Nuba Mountains, the hospital features a workshop that is designed to help train local doctors and clinicians to create 3D printed prosthetic arms. There is an estimated 50,000 amputees in South Sudan. Not Impossible Labs wishes to help communities like Daniel's by providing low-cost solutions on an open-source, DIY platform.