When most people call Chris, it’s because the WiFi is down. But when Peggy needed help, it wasn’t tech support she was after; it was a new leg.
Chris, Groundswell’s behind-the-scenes IT wizard, picked up a small flock of chickens about four months ago. What started as a “low-effort” outdoor hobby quickly became a lesson in resilience when Peggy was injured in the coop and left unable to use one leg.
Epsom salt bath
Chris went into troubleshooting mode. Epsom salt baths, a popsicle-stick splint, and hours of research, but nothing stuck.
Then he remembered Groundswell’s Prototyping Lab. Teaming up with Ruchir, he 3D-printed Peggy a custom leg brace. With a little “bird therapy” to help her balance and encourage her to stand. Slowly but surely, Peggy went from sitting all day to flying, hopping, and tapping her way across the yard. Today, she perches at night, keeps up with her flock, and shows off her three working toes.
Peggy and her 3D-printed custom leg brace
Peggy’s recovery is more than just a chicken story; it’s a perfect example of what Groundswell is all about: creativity, persistence, and community coming together to solve problems. From a 3D-printed brace to bird therapy, she’s thriving today thanks to that spirit and thanks to Chris.
So next time you see him at Groundswell, say hi or ask about Peggy; she’s basically a startup success story herself.
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