AN Irish woman has become the first adult in the world to receive a revolutionary REMOTE CONTROLLED 'ROBO SPINE', which uses magnets to combat the effects of scoliosis. Deirdre McDonnell, 34, from Drogheda, County Louth, can now stand tall for the first time after undergoing the pioneering MAGEC rod operation. The operation, also known as the magnetic expansion control system, involves the insertion of a magnetic rod that is screwed onto the spine and controlled externally in order to correct the curvature caused by scoliosis. Up until now, the £15K procedure has only been performed on children, as it was thought only to be effective for early onset scoliosis - typically diagnosed before the age of ten.
LOCATIONS bursting with vibrant greens and chestnut browns, these photographs capture the peaceful English countryside in all its glory .
NEVER mind being careful not to choke on your food, this mother bird has a bigger challenge on her hands, as her ravenous offspring impatiently launches its head down into her stomach .
THIS incredible shimmer of silver fish mirrors the image of that of an underwater tornado .
WELCOME to the drawing room that is home to the £100K world’s greatest collection of Margaret Thatcher autographed objects .
WITH THEIR adorable big round eyes and fluffy white fur, these baby seals are cute enough to melt any heart .
A SPECTACULAR array of stars fills the night sky as they soar over this active volcano .
A proud gorilla mum welcomes her newborn baby western lowland gorilla, a critically endangered species .
FROM COLOURFUL autumn leaves to living trees at first glance you might miss these people blended with nature .
A DETERMINED great blue heron holds on tightly to its prey as the furry gopher attempts to wriggle free .
Like a scene from a fairytale, THOUSANDS of fireflies create an enchanting glow as they dance in a forest .
