Issy’s Story
Issy’s Journey
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)
For Issy, The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH) has played a significant role in her life for many years. Diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) as a child, she has undergone three major surgeries, including a complex Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO) — a hip preserving procedure designed to stabilise the joint.
Recovery from a TPO is a gradual process. Patients typically begin with limited weight‑bearing and rely on crutches, slowly increasing their mobility through physiotherapy. Full recovery, including rebuilding strength and returning to normal movement, can take 6–12 months as the pelvic bones heal.
Throughout this long and often challenging journey, Issy has been supported by exceptional care, compassion and encouragement from the ROH team.
Issy reflects not only on the clinical expertise that transformed her life, but also on the kindness of the people she met along the way. She remembers the cleaner who surprised her with a teddy bear and a card to celebrate her GCSE results — checking in on her every day during her stay. She recalls the Transition to Adult Services team, who helped her feel more confident and in control of her healthcare decisions. Her surgeon, Mr Bache, provided both outstanding surgical care and the reassurance she needed before and after her operations. And the hydrotherapy physiotherapists who supported her through the earliest and most difficult stages of rehabilitation.
Today, Issy is training for her first half marathon, aiming to complete the race in under two hours — a goal that once felt out of reach. Running has always been her passion, despite the pain, limitations and setbacks caused by DDH. Each mile she now runs represents both her determination and the life‑changing support she received at ROH.
Fundraising for the Royal Orthopaedic Charity is Issy’s way of giving something back.
“ROH has played such a big part in my life. The staff have been there through every operation, every setback and every milestone. I’m running to thank them for everything they’ve done.” – Issy
Issy’s mum also shares her perspective. She began running simply to support Issy at their local club, when Issy was too young to join the adult group alone. Running quickly became their shared passion, even as DDH made it a constant challenge for Issy. Every time Issy faced another operation or difficult recovery, she worked tirelessly to return to the sport she loves.
Inspired by her daughter’s determination, Issy’s mum completed her first half marathon, raising over £900 for ROC last year.
“Issy has had many operations and still faces more in the future. I wanted my first half marathon to count — to raise awareness of DDH and support the Royal Orthopaedic Charity. They help fund research and treatments that give people the chance to live pain‑free lives. Everyone deserves that.” – Issy’s Mum
Issy hopes that by sharing her story, she can inspire others and highlight the life‑changing impact of expert care, kindness and perseverance. Her commitment to giving back is already helping to support future patients on their own orthopaedic journeys.
Every donation made through Issy’s fundraising page helps fund life‑changing care, research and support for patients facing challenges just like hers.
You can support Issy directly by donating here: Justgiving link
Why not set up your own fundraiser?!
Whether it’s a sponsored walk, a bake sale, a workplace challenge or something uniquely you, every fundraiser helps ensures that more patients receive the care, compassion and hope they deserve. Together, we can turn Issy’s journey into a ripple effect of support for countless others.
