‘It’s a dream’: exoskeleton allows boy with cerebral palsy to walk and play

Jorge Alejo, 12, was greeted with applause as he walked into the room where his friends were waiting. Photograph: Pablo García/The Guardian

Given the day’s importance and the many long months he and his family had dreamed of it, Jorge would probably have preferred a special guest appearance by Tony Stark, Dr Bruce Banner or Marshall the fire pup from Paw Patrol. Or, better still, all three.

But in the end he had to make do with a surprise visit from Pedro Sánchez. At 12.45pm on Tuesday, surrounded by friends and teachers – and Spain’s prime minister – Jorge fulfilled the biggest ambition of his 12 years by standing up, walking over to his classmates, and playing with them.