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.
SAILING over crystal clear waters, the Bajau people of Malaysia live their lives almost entirely at SEA .
A US firefighter has battled osteoarthritis and four hip replacements to break the world paddleboarding record .
A pair of adorable polar bear cubs play-fight with each other in the Alaskan snow .
A puppy bit off more than he could chew when he stole a six inch Chinese spare rib from his owner and swallowed it WHOLE, Cheeky Staffordshire bull terrier Rossi had his life SPARED when he underwent a life-saving operation to remove the bone from his stomach after swiping part of the takeaway meal .
A baby sperm whale assumed the role of a friendly giant when faced with two awestruck divers .
When couples talk about wanting a white wedding, few will be referring to getting hitched on a glacier sat on top of an active volcano .
Sitting all alone on drift ice in the Arctic Ocean, this lonely little fella looks lost .
LOCATIONS bursting with vibrant greens and chestnut browns, these photographs capture the peaceful English countryside in all its glory .
An intrepid explorer hopes to be reunited with his travel partner, after his cuddly toy companion was stolen .
HOTSPOT MEDIA - BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH AR' KID: A POSTAL SORTER has perfected the art of time travel by delivering images that are from the past .
A northern potoo shows it is a master of disguise as it perches on a tree stump and blends into the bark .
