Olympics 2024: French Paraplegic athlete Kevin Piette walks with Olympic Flame with Exoskeleton Aid, Video goes Viral

The Olympic spirit was in full display after French Paralympian Kevin Piette was seen walking with the Olympic torch ahead of the Paris Olympics 2024 opening ceremony.

Piette, a tennis player who became paraplegic 11 years ago, managed to walk with the aid of an exoskeleton. It was such a soothing visual that it has gone viral across the globe.

Wandercraft, the company behind the exoskeleton worn by Piette, designs devices that help individuals with severe gait impairments stand and walk hands-free. These battery-operated exoskeletons use sensors and algorithms to detect movements and provide personalised support.

Piette lost his walking ability a decade ago in an accident. The French Paralympian got a taste of walking with the Exoskeleton around his body, as he could walk on the streets of Paris amid the cheering of hundreds of people. The video showing Piette walking has gone viral and has been admired by people across the globe.

Anand Mahindra, the owner of Mahindra group, was awestruck by the advancement of technology.

"The Games haven't even begun, but this may well be a defining image of this edition of Olympics. Unyielding hope and courage. Kevin Piette, a paraplegic, carrying the Olympic Flame with the aid of an exoskeleton. Technology at its triumphant best," he wrote on X.

Piette's journey from a life-altering accident to becoming a para-athletics inspiration showcases his determination and commitment to sports and inclusivity. He has significantly contributed to developing robotic walking devices and participated in events highlighting assistive technologies. The Paraplegic tennis player walking has to be one of the best frames of the Olympics 2024.

Impact of Paraplegia

Paraplegia is characterised by paralysis or loss of motor function in the lower extremities. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life through physical therapy, medication, and assistive devices like wheelchairs. The condition presents significant challenges, but advancements in technology offer new hope for those affected.