‘He loves it’: Robotic legs help Bow Island boy discover walking

The family had learned that Emerson’s hips are 30 per cent out of alignment, and the robotic legs could potentially improve his mobility enough to help avoid surgery.

His mother, Bryce Wickerink, says Emerson has been using the Trexo robotic legs for about a week, starting with 15-minute sessions each day on a walking pad.

“It’s been pretty incredible, and if he gets in there, we strap him in. He’s already doing the motion to walk. So it’s pretty surreal to see that,” Bryce said.

“He loves it; his smile is so big, and he gets so excited, and his little voice starts getting all squeaky and happy.”

Emerson will continue to increase the time spent on the device.

The family hopes the therapy will strengthen Emerson’s legs and hips enough to eventually help him walk using a walker without the robotic assistance.

A guiding pole attached to the support system allows Emerson’s parents or caregivers to help direct him while the robotic legs move his legs through the walking pattern.

The challenge of walking is compounded by Emerson’s limited vision.

Bryce said doctors have determined that Emerson’s eyes are physically healthy, but believe there is an issue with the connection between his brain and his eyes.

“He can see light, and he can see dark,” Bryce said.

“If I go into his room with my flashlight on my phone, he sees me.”

Emerson has strong hearing, according to his mother, and uses crawling as his primary way of getting around.

Because Emerson cannot reliably see obstacles, his parents will verbally warn him about furniture, walls and other objects.

In July, the Ridin’ for Kids Foundation presented Emerson and his parents, Ashton and Bryce Wikkerink, with a $118,613.40 cheque through its annual fundraiser.

In addition to the purchase of the robotic legs, the funds will also continue to cover ongoing costs, including travel to medical appointments, equipment adjustments and future care.

The Ridin’ for Kids Foundation, based in Medicine Hat, says its fundraising supports local families facing significant medical challenges.

Organizers say the record-breaking campaign would not have been possible without the support of riders, volunteers, businesses and donors across southeastern Alberta.

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READ: Ridin’ for Kids Foundation raises more than $118K for local boy’s robotic walking legs (July 5, 2026)

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READ: Southeast Alberta charity motorcycle ride to help 4-year-old boy from Bow Island with K1F1A syndrome (June 7, 2026)

by Jesse Gill

‘He loves it’: Robotic legs help Bow Island boy discover walking

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