Sometimes the simplest ideas come from the most heartfelt places. In 2014, 11-year-old Lily Born created a groundbreaking mug design to help her grandfather, who struggled with Parkinson’s disease. Little did she know, her invention would not only transform lives but also turn into a multimillion-dollar success. This is the story of how a child’s love and ingenuity became a game-changer for thousands of people worldwide.
A Mug Inspired by a Grandfather’s Struggles
At just nine years old, Lily noticed her grandfather spilling drinks due to the tremors caused by Parkinson’s disease. Determined to help, she began brainstorming ideas for a more stable drinking solution. Her vision was clear: create a mug that wouldn’t tip over easily, even if the user’s hands were shaky.
Lily’s first creation was what she called the Kangaroo Cup—a mug with three integrated legs that offered greater stability and prevented spills. Her father immediately saw its potential and encouraged her to take the idea further. Together, they launched a crowdfunding campaign, and the Kangaroo Cup was born.
From Prototype to Game-Changer
The initial prototypes of the Kangaroo Cup were made of plastic. While practical, Lily and her father realized that upgrading the material to ceramic would make the product more appealing and durable. However, after some trial and error, they introduced a stronger plastic version with reinforced handles and sturdier legs, ensuring the design met the needs of those with mobility challenges.
Today, the Kangaroo Cup has become a staple for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and others who require added stability while drinking. Its popularity extends beyond this niche, as even parents and children find the design practical for everyday use.
Lily’s Journey a Decade Later
Now 21 years old, Lily Born is thriving as the director and lead innovator at her company, Imagiroo, which she founded to market her creations. Reflecting on her journey, Lily explains, “I love the design, prototyping, and marketing aspects of the business. When I’m not working on new ideas or promoting the mugs, I enjoy acting, singing, and sketching.” Through platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, her company has sold over 1,000 ceramic mugs and 10,000 plastic cups. Recently, Imagiroo launched an unbreakable plastic version of the Kangaroo Cup, designed for both adults and children who want a better, spill-free drinking experience.
What Makes the Kangaroo Cup Special?
The Kangaroo Cup is designed with innovative features that address common challenges faced by individuals with tremors or motor difficulties. Its three-legged base provides exceptional stability, reducing the likelihood of tipping over. Even with shaky hands, the cup remains securely in place on flat surfaces. Additionally, the design incorporates a low center of gravity, further enhancing its stability. Ergonomic, oversized handles ensure a firm and comfortable grip, making it easier to use for people with limited motor control.
These thoughtful features allow users to enjoy greater independence and confidence when drinking. For many, the Kangaroo Cup isn’t just a product—it’s a life-changing tool that brings dignity and convenience to everyday tasks.
A Continuing Success
The Kangaroo Cup remains a top seller on Imagiroo’s official website, where several models with modern designs are available. Its ongoing success highlights the impact of Lily’s ingenuity and her dedication to creating practical solutions for real-life problems.
Lily’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and creativity. What began as a loving gesture for her grandfather has grown into a global phenomenon, proving that even the smallest ideas can make the biggest difference.