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.
It's incredible to think anyone could live in such horrendous squalor - yet two men have been prosecuted for keeping their homes in such revolting conditions that it was no longer fit for their animals .
FROM KISSING an alligator on the nose to walking over broken glass, this fearless daredevil is a real life female JACKASS .
If you had to scrape the snow off your car this morning or slip-slide your way into work over icy pavements spare a thought for these little critters .
With blue waves tumbling over them, these surfers glide underneath a tunnel of water .
FULL OF STUNNING colours and swirling shapes, the furrows on these fields create a mix of mesmerising patterns .
YOU’VE heard of the northern lights now feast your eyes on the natural wonder of the SOUTHERN lights .
SOME OF the sea’s most terrifying creatures show their softer side as they join a group of diners for lunch .
WITHOUT A care in the world, this little snow monkey puts his feet up and settles in for a snooze .
An adorable orangutan named Pongo celebrates his first birthday at Zoo Atlanta, Georgia, America .
LYING back in the snow, these two polar bears share a cuddle as they call time out on playtime .
