Young Filey cancer sufferer to return to classroom using telepresence robot

Archie, 12, was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma on September 18 last year, however, despite undergoing a gruelling chemotherapy regime, his cancer has failed to be brought under control and on Monday, February 16, Archie underwent an operation to amputate his leg.

The family approached Filey School, where Archie started last September, to allow the use of an AV1 virtual robotic assistant to enable Archie to attend lessons during his recovery, however the school was initially unable to commit to the installation of the device.

The AV1 is a specialized, small, and portable telepresence robot designed to act as a "physical presence" in schools for children and young adults who cannot attend in person due to long-term illness, anxiety, or physical disabilities.

It functions as the user's "eyes, ears, and voice" in the classroom, enabling them to maintain social and educational connections. It records no video and should Archie wish to ask or answer a question, he can simply press a button and the Robot will light up.

The family underwent meetings with the school to try and arrange for Archie to have his own AV1 robot, and eventually took to social media to raise awareness of how beneficial the robot could be.

Archie’s aunt, Christina Makin said: “I emailed Archie’s teachers explaining that having the robot would make Archie feel like he was still in class. His friends could even take it to lunch to allow him to keep contact with them.

“We were told that Delta had never had a robot in any of their schools and that they would need to check it out - but we heard nothing.

“Archie was ready for the robot over a month ago, as soon as we found out about it he was desperate for it.”

Having seen a feature about the AV1 on television, Christina reached out to charity The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust in January which approved funding for the robot.

Archie’s mum Sammy said: “By the time he goes back to school in September a year will have passed, and all of his friends will be ahead

“The charity has said it can have the device set up and in place within a week - it doesn’t take long at all.

“Archie is just getting by - he’s so sad.

“Even a couple of weeks ago he wanted to do stuff, now he’s not interacting.

“It’s so frustrating to sit and watch.”

Jo Bennett, Appeals and Projects Manager, The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust said: “The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust has successfully deployed AV1 robots in schools across the South enabling children undergoing cancer treatment to remain connected to their education and friendships during long periods away from the classroom.

“These robots provide far more than academic access, they reduce isolation, support emotional wellbeing and help children continue to feel part of their school community at a difficult time.

“We have offered to provide Archie with one of our robots to support him during his treatment, so he can stay positive and engaged with his learning and peers.”

A spokesperson for the school said: “Our first thoughts are with Archie and his family during this incredibly difficult time.

“As soon as possible and when the time’s right for Archie, he will have the use of an AV1 robot to help stay in contact with friends and continue his education.

“An AV1 robot has arrived in school and teachers, with support from experts, are looking at how it can best help Archie.

“We have been doing all we can to support him.

“Our school community was proud to raise more than £500 from a Christmas jumper day for the ward Archie attends in Leeds and we were pleased to be able to share that news with his family.

“We will continue to work with him, his family and experts from Hospital School and Local Authority to deliver an individual package of support tailored to Archie’s needs.

“Most importantly, we wish him all the best in his recovery from his operation.”

Following Archie’s amputation at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, his family gave an update on Archie’s Cancer Journey Facebook page which read: “How is this boy still smiling?

“This boy just keeps us all going, he’s had physio, he’s in a bit of pain, but understandable.

“You wouldn’t think he’s just gone through what he has the last 8/9 months.

“How he’s still smiling blows our mind, he has a strength to be proud of.

“He’s praying to be home this week but we will see.”