The robot-assisted walking therapy machine is meant for children who have lost their walking function as a result of serious illness, birth trauma, or a childhood stroke. This device has been anticipated for years because there are many such patients.

Kaja Elstein, head of Pärnu Hospital rehabilitation department, said there are 10-15 children who could use the machine right away.

Elstein said: "But the amount of children who could use it is increasing and we can also use it for patients who are no longer children, but fit the physical parameters. The height of the device is 150 cm."

Elstein emphasized that while robotics are critical in modern rehabilitation, the best results come when used together with traditional physical therapy.

The Children's Foundation paid more than 40 percent of the total cost of €120,000 for the machine.

Urmas Sule, head of Pärnu Hospital, said: "I am very grateful for the Children's Foundation and that they are working on this project on making technical aids more accessible to children especially. They have done an exceptional job and I would like to express my gratitude and recognition."

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