Georgia Coughlan magnetic device that helps hold crutches together when not in use has been patented and sold to the Bay of Plenty District Health Board reports SunLive.
The design uses a plastic mould which holds a strong magnet attached to the crutches.
“I wanted something strong enough to hold the crutches together, but not too strong that you couldn’t roll them apart,” says Georgia.
She has presented the product to hospitals over the last three weeks, and Bay of Plenty District Health Board chief executive officer Phil Cammish has bought 20 sets. They are now being tested to see if they are suitable for hospital use.
Georgia has sold Geeper’s Keepers to family and friends and has given a pair to family friend Rosemary Saunders who has multiple sclerosis. Rosemary is a long term user of crutches – and inspiration for the invention.
Photo by chadh