June is the international awareness month for Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). DDH is a common and preventable cause of childhood disability. Unfortunately, a late diagnosis of the condition leads to a higher chance of needing surgery and a higher risk of long-term complications. Despite the introduction of national screening programmes, which in some cases also include universal screening of newborns, late diagnosis of the condition still occurs. It is of vital importance that Steps, along with international organisations, work together to reduce late diagnosis and improve training and education of healthcare professionals involved in the physical examination of neonates

“At 13 months old I was diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of my right hip. My parents noticed that when I started to walk, I kept falling over no matter how hard I tried. Convinced that there was something wrong my parents took me to see an orthopaedic surgeon at Great Ormond street Hospital. X-rays showed that my right hip socket hadn’t properly formed, therefore I needed treatment. 

At 18 months, I was put in traction for 1 week, which then lead to me having closed reduction surgery. After surgery I was put in a spica cast for 12 weeks and then I went on to have a hip brace. At my post op check-up we were given the amazing news that my surgery had been successful and I could start my true road to recovery.

After checking with my doctor, my parents chose to put me into dance classes at 2 ½. From this moment on my love and passion for dance started to grow. Up to the age of 16 I managed to complete all my dance exams within various dance genres and I have even managed to achieve 2 teaching qualifications.

At this stage I realised that I wanted to dance as a career, I was apprehensive at first considering my history as I was worried that my hip wouldn’t allow me to pursue a career in this field. However, my doctors helped to reassure me with my decision. I had regular check-ups at Great Ormond street until I was 18. Within these appointments my doctors seemed extremely amazed at the number of hours a week I spent dancing and at the progress and development of my hip throughout the years. They could see no reason as to why it would restrict my career choice. Therefore, I decided to begin full time training and started studying a dance degree, which I am now in my final year, hoping to pursue my career.

My socket is still slightly shallow and I am very aware of my limits, however considering where it started it is in pretty perfect condition. I feel extremely lucky to be able to do all that I do today and I am determined to strive for my dream job. This wouldn’t have been achieved without the support of my family, friends, lecturers and most importantly my surgeons, to whom I am truly grateful.

STEPS not only helped me but also helped my parents by supporting them and providing them with the necessary equipment and information needed to care for me when going through my treatment. Therefore, I’d like to help raise money to help this amazing charity”

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