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.
THROWING himself off 1,100ft bridges in a wheelchair, this is the PARALYSED base jumper who knows no fear .
From the rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons to the still waters in the Lake District, these photographs capture autumnal landscapes across Great Britain perfectly .
THIS LITTLE squirrel tries to keep himself snug as snow starts to fall around him .
A baby sperm whale assumed the role of a friendly giant when faced with two awestruck divers .
A proud gorilla mum welcomes her newborn baby western lowland gorilla, a critically endangered species .
A unique business in Birkenhead, Merseyside is sure to leave you HALF-CUT with its unusual pub and barbers combination .
GETTING behind the camera, this monkey practices his photography skills on his friends .
WIDE EYED with a huge smile across her face, this little elephant is a picture of happiness .
SWIMMING next to 40 tonne whales, dare-devil divers take the plunge with these gentle giants of the sea .
AIRPORT staff have been put on alert after diet pills that come in grenade shaped containers sparked security alerts .
A COUNCIL has come under fire for slapping fines on people’s GRAVESTONES for breaching petty regulations on pot plants .
Destroyed buildings and overturned cars are seen after a huge tornado struck Moore, Oklahoma, near Oklahoma City, May 20, 2013 .