Mr. Rogers always told his audiences to look for the helpers. James Anderson, dubbed “Britain’s kindest plumber,” more than qualifies. James runs a philanthropic organization called DEPHER, which works to assist the elderly population and others struggling with housing. James could not help but also come to the aid of 7-year-old Alex Sparkes.
Alex was born with only one arm and used to wish for one to grow for his birthday. James had a better idea, and donated money so Alex could get a Black Panther-themed prosthetic limb instead. The arm has greatly improved Alex’s quality of life, including being able to go on a fishing trip with his dad where he could hold a rod with both hands.
Alex was on a list to receive a prosthetic arm from Britain's National Health Service, but the wait seemed never-ending. His parents decided to take matters into their own hands after attending an event by Open Bionics. They created a crowdfunding page to raise funds for Alex.
James saw the page and “fell in love” with the boy. He offered to foot the bill. Alex and his parents picked up the new hero arm on July 24, 2023. Alex was thrilled.
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Alex thinks his new arm is “amazing.” He is loving his newfound independence. “I can now pick up stuff,” he explained. “I feel happy when I’m fishing with two hands and I can reel the rod.” Alex’s next big mission is to learn how to tie his shoes. There’s no stopping this young man now.
