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.
A couple have got engaged after the bride-to-be’s boyfriend set her a Facebook ‘likes’ challenge .
WELCOME to all that remains of Britain's once state-of-the-art military hospital where plastic surgery was pioneered for injured WW1 troops who survived the SOMME .
An adorable orangutan named Pongo celebrates his first birthday at Zoo Atlanta, Georgia, America .
SAT with his arms folded and a cross look on his face, this Gorilla looks like he's had enough of the Christmas holidays already .
Those with a fear of flying and a ticket to Lukla Airport will want to look away now .
A carefree bear cub reclines in the water with his feet raised in the air .
HIDDEN in the middle of the Mojave Desert, a secret oasis awaits intrepid travellers .
Blonde teen Jess Stubbs has certainly got girl power - as Britain’s youngest TRUCKER .
WITH THEIR adorable big round eyes and fluffy white fur, these baby seals are cute enough to melt any heart .
An Italian photographer travelled to northern India where he visited poverty stricken suburbs and captured ordinary people in a series of intimate and expressive portraits .
EAGERLY BITING his nails, this little squirrel is clearly nervous of looming predators as he searches for his meal .