Nneile Nkholise, a young mechanical engineering technologist from the Free State is helping breast cancer survivors reclaim their lives by using 3D printing.
Nneile Nkholise started the iMedTech Group which uses 3D printing technology to produce prosthetic devices that help women regain their confidence after breast cancer. These women have undergone a mastectomy and the prosthetic helps regain their sense of self after the traumatic surgery.
In 2013, Nneile was in the process of working on her Masters degree when she started using 3D technology. The iMedTech Group uses 3D printing to create the moulds and cast silicone inside to create the final breast prosthesis. This process helps breast cancer survivors reclaim their lives.
“I have always had a passion for the breast cancer cause. Creating the breast prosthesis was me coming to a solution to a life-long journey.”
She has always wanted to help women with breast cancer and knew that the cost of using 3D printing was much cheaper than the other alternatives. The printed prosthetics are affordable and attainable for all econimic groups with prices starting at R900.00. iMedTech offers standard size prosthetics as well as custom sizes.
“We are able to create breast prosthesis below R1 800. The prices are from R900 to R1 800, depending on the size. It allows a lot of people, even from disadvantaged areas, to be able to afford the breast prosthesis.”
Her goal is to help 1000 women by October 2018. You can find out more about her initiative on Facebook here.
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