Theodora was diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the hip at the age of 6 months.

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition where the "ball and socket" joint of the hip does not properly form in babies and young children. About 1 or 2 in every 1,000 babies have DDH that needs to be treated.

Before our daughter was born with this condition, we both took walking for granted. At STEPS they do not take walking for granted.

All the literature on Hip Dysplasia is from STEPS CHARITY. Along with their informative booklets, website, and Facebook page their literature has been vital for our understanding of the condition and treatment required.

Her treatment was at The LGI for Children in Leeds under the Orthopaedics’ Team (Consultant Dr Bryant and her fantastic Nursing Team).

In October 2020, Theodora required open reduction surgery to enable the femoral head to be placed back into the hip socket. Following surgery, a cast was fitted for a period of 7 weeks to allow the femoral head to form within the socket.

Although we knew this was the most effective treatment for Theodora long term, it was very difficult to see her distressed, agitated, and so uncomfortable for long periods of time. Not to forget the sleepless nights.

In November 2020 we were informed that the operation had been unsuccessful, we were devastated by the news.

Theodora had the corrective surgery in February 2021.  We are hopeful that this time the operation will be a success and she will be on the road to recovery.

Throughout the whole ordeal Theodora has been so brave, a real inspiration and even throughout all of this she continues to have a huge smile on her face. We are extremely proud of Theodora and how she has coped and taken all of this in her stride.

I have a personal connection to the Charity STEPS, and I will be running the London Marathon in 2021 to raise money for this exceptional charity.

My aim is to provide support to all the families on their Hip Dysplasia journey and all other childhood related limb disorders.

Thank you for taking the time to read our journey.

Any donations would be most grateful.