Twice a week, you can find Derek Sam walking on a treadmill with the help of a specialized robot called a Lokomat.
It's part of his rehabilitation. Four years ago Derek's legs were left paralyzed after a virus attacked his brain.
"It's really encouraging to us to see him have even make small improvements," his sister Sam-Leong says.
A common problem with paralysis is muscle atrophy, where muscles shrink from lack of use.
Traditionally, mobility rehabilitation takes at least two therapists -- one to stabilize the pelvis, as well as one or two more people to help move the patient's legs.
Instead, the Lokomat works on its own and can be precisely programmed to meet each individual's needs.
"It can improve range of motion and it can improve posture, it can improve strength in the lower extremities and it can allow someone to walk when they otherwise wouldn't be able to," physiotherapist Pauline Martin says.
Up until now the Lokomat was only used for research purposes. The machine Derek uses is the first one in B.C. available to the public.
"We would treat individuals with stroke, brain injury, MS, Parkinson's," Martin says.
In just four months, the sessions have already helped to strengthen Derek's core muscles and improve his range of motion.
"With Derek we have noticed improved sitting balance, so on the side of the bed," Martin says.
And for his family it is a welcome sight to see him moving and out of his wheelchair.
"I was overcome with emotions because again he hasn't been in this walking motion for four and half years," his sister says.
"We just try to do everything we can to try and help him get better, faster."
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Dr. Rhonda Low
