- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Interviews
Vikki's interview
How did all start?
When I was about 5 years old I started complaining of pains in my knees - turns out you can get deferred pains! My walking also deteriorated and I started limping.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
The doctors ignored my mum at first and she was accused of being an over-anxious mother. My teacher then told my mum I was clinging to tables to help myself walk in school. My parents had enough at this point and took me straight to the hospital. I was kept under observations and had some scans and they then diagnosed me with perthes in both hips.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I was very lucky in that I had a very good specialist in Bristol called Dr Witherow who performed a double osteotony. I had plates in my hips for a year and a half. Although I still have had limited movement in my hips I have managed to lead a very normal life.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Learning to walk again after my plates were fitted was very hard. I now suffer from severe hip and lower back pain very frequently.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
The only thing I struggle with socially is going out places with limited seating options as I cannot stand or walk for long periods.
What things have you stopped doing?
Nothing. I just have to deal with the pain!
What do you think about the future?
I am excited about the future but worry about bearing children and the effects that would have on my hips!
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
My 20s. I have been on lovely holidays, developed my career and met the love of my life!
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
I'd go camping, hiking and go to a festival!
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Filled with love.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Keep your chin up. There are people out there that will help you. Don't be afraid to admit when you need help.
