For most of her nine years, Violet Hall has carved out her own path and defied expectations that come with being born without a right hand. Although she attempted to use prosthetics in the past, Violet and her parents, Milet and Brandon, found them to be difficult to use and eventually gave up on the idea.

But after hearing about 3-D printing at Indiana University's annual Science Fest and seeing a website for Enabling the Future—a nonprofit organization that allows people throughout the world to use their 3-D skills and printers to create free, 3-D printed hands and arms for those in need—Violet’s mom reached out to see if anyone in Bloomington could create an arm for her daughter. Jon Racek, senior lecturer at IU’s School of Art and Design whose daughters played basketball with Violet, just happened to see the post on Facebook. A designer by trade and somewhat familiar with 3-D printing, Racek answered the call.

With the help of the School of Art and Design’s MadLab, Racek created a customized, 3-D arm that will allow Violet to pursue her goals of playing a musical instrument, easily riding a bike and pursuing typical activities of a 9-year old.

“I think this is the most Violet has been interested in any (type of assistance) for her arm. The fact she designed it is also amazing,” Milet said. “This is such a blessing, and it’s huge for our family—that someone would reach out to help her. I hope someone hears this story and decides to help out someone like Violet.”

Original Source: IU Newsroom