Celeste’s ReWalk Journey

Part of Celeste’s journey to get back on her feet is participating in a clinical study using the ReWalk Exoskeleton, a wearable robotic suit that helps people walk. When she first started using it, Celeste could walk 10 yards. Now, she can walk half a mile. Here’s how she got there.

Browsing clinicaltrials.org, Celeste found a post looking for candidates to practice using a ReWalk Exoskeleton recently acquired by A.T. Still University in Mesa, Arizona. A ReWalk Exoskeleton is a computer-controlled, wearable robotic suit. The ReWalk legs attach to Celeste’s, and the robotic movement helps her walk (with some assistance and crutches on both arms).

Celeste’s first session with the ReWalk was in May 2024. During that first session, Celeste could walk about 10 yards with significant assistance. Since then, she has practiced walking in it once a week for about an hour and a half each session. The work has paid off; Celeste can now walk half a mile in the ReWalk with minimal assistance!

While using the ReWalk is strenuous, the benefits of the exoskeleton are immense. Walking in the ReWalk helps Celeste exercise her respiratory and circulatory systems. It also allows her to be weight-bearing, which contributes to maintaining her muscle and bone strength. Finally, the ReWalk enables her to stand, practice her balance, and focus on reconnecting with her lower body.

The ReWalk has been an important tool in Celeste’s rehabilitation journey. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages @onmyfeetandbeyond to watch Celeste walk with the ReWalk!