On a balmy mid-July morning, Jamie McAnsh found solace on a log bench beside the Grouse Grind trail in Vancouver. Halfway through the challenging 2.5-kilometre ascent, which comprises a staggering 2,830 steps, McAnsh paused to reflect on his remarkable journey. “I’ve always avoided stairs because they’ve been a struggle,” he admitted, gesturing to the supportive orthotic device on his legs. “It doesn’t make it easy, but it makes it possible.”
Mr. McAnsh’s story is one of resilience. Once a vibrant sales executive and an outdoor enthusiast in his early 30s, he faced a life-altering event on January 6, 2014. After experiencing a severe neurological spasm, he was left with nerve damage that resulted in partial paralysis from the waist down. Diagnosed with bilateral lower-limb complex regional pain syndrome—a rare and debilitating neurological condition—he grappled with intense pain that forced him to rely on a wheelchair and later, forearm crutches.
Overcoming Pain and Limitations
Despite the overwhelming challenges, McAnsh’s spirit remained unbroken. He began a journey of physical recovery and self-discovery, determined to reclaim his active lifestyle. In 2022, he embarked on an extraordinary trek to Everest Base Camp, navigating the rugged terrain on crutches. Following this achievement, he set his sights on an even greater challenge: climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Anticipating the demanding sections of Kilimanjaro where traditional mobility aids might falter, McAnsh sought a more advanced solution. His search led him to a knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO) developed by the French company Thuasne. Designed to provide support without compromising independence, the KAFO allowed him to relearn how to walk with confidence.
“I approached them with my plan,” he recounted. “I told them, ‘I’m climbing Kilimanjaro, and I want to do it using your device.’” McAnsh’s persistence paid off, and just eight weeks later, he successfully summited Kilimanjaro, a testament to both his perseverance and the capabilities of the KAFO technology.
Aiming Higher: Everest on the Horizon
Fast-forward two years, and McAnsh is gearing up for an even more daunting expedition: Mount Everest, which he plans to conquer in 2028. His training began with the Grouse Grind, where he tested a new iteration of the KAFO developed in collaboration with Canadian company Bionic Power. This advanced orthosis, known as the SpryStep Agilik, features a motorised component that aids movement and adapts to the user’s gait.
The Agilik represents a leap forward in orthotic technology, moving away from bulky exoskeletons to a lightweight, functional design. It collects data on McAnsh’s movements, providing real-time feedback that can be analysed for future iterations of the device. “This technology is designed not just for climbing, but for everyday mobility,” explained Gualtiero Guadagni, CEO of Bionic Power. “We want to make it accessible and effective for those who need it.”
As McAnsh tackled the Grouse Grind, equipped with the Agilik, he demonstrated the potential of this innovative technology. “I want everyone to experience the joy of movement,” he said. “When you’ve had that ability taken away, you realise how precious it is.”
Charting New Paths
While the Grouse Grind may not mirror the challenges of Everest—where the peak soars 8,849 metres above sea level—McAnsh views the ascent as an essential step in his training. He acknowledged that the Agilik is not specifically designed for extreme mountaineering, yet its performance under such conditions will provide critical insights for its future development.
On this particular day, sweat trickled down his brow as he navigated the steep trail, pausing periodically to collect data and assess his performance. Each step was a testament to his determination, a reminder of the obstacles he had overcome and the mountains still to climb.
McAnsh’s approach to Everest will differ from traditional climbers. He plans to ascend via the north face, avoiding the treacherous southern route that poses avalanche risks. His meticulous planning includes considerations for the logistics of transporting necessary equipment, including the Agilik’s battery and charging infrastructure.
“I dreamt of climbing Everest since I was seven,” McAnsh reflected. “To think that I might actually achieve that is incredible.”
Why it Matters
Jamie McAnsh’s journey is not just about personal triumph; it encapsulates a broader message about the potential of technology to transform lives. By sharing his experiences, he aims to inspire others facing similar challenges, highlighting that limitations can be overcome with the right tools and mindset. McAnsh’s odyssey is a powerful reminder that resilience and innovation can pave the way for remarkable achievements, encouraging individuals to redefine their possibilities, no matter the obstacles.
