VicHip's 1000th family

Image: Eloise, VicHip's 1000th participant

Eloise's story

Although Eloise showed no obvious signs or symptoms, a precautionary ultrasound — recommended due to her Mum Emily's own history — revealed her hip dysplasia. This early detection allowed Eloise to receive immediate treatment. “I remembered feeling really upset for her because she had just started rolling over that morning,” Emily shared.

The diagnosis meant adjusting some things at home. “We had to figure out clothing and sleeping bags suitable for hip dysplasia,” Emily explained, adding that they also needed a car seat that worked with her brace.

Eloise wore a brace for a total of seven months, starting in October 2023. First, in a Denis Browne Bar and then in a Rhino brace, which she wore for 21 to 24 hours a day. This limited her mobility and precious cuddle time with her mum. "Breastfeeding wasn’t comfortable anymore,” Emily admitted. "I wanted her to snuggle into me and enjoy the experience."

Despite these challenges, Eloise remained remarkably cheerful. Thanks to early diagnosis and treatment, she is now thriving. After the brace was removed, she slowly regained her mobility, cruising around furniture and taking her first steps on her own in September 2024.

Image: Ryan, Emily, Eloise and Mr Chris Harris (Orthopaedic Surgeon)

Why Emily and Ryan joined VicHip

Emily and Ryan joined VicHip because they wanted to help other families like theirs. Emily said she knows that "early identification is crucial" for children with hip dysplasia and hopes their involvement will lead to better screening methods, earlier diagnoses and more effective treatments. They also want to help researchers uncover the underlying causes and risk factors of hip dysplasia.

With the support of families like Emily and Ryan's, and hospitals across Victoria, VicHip gathers vital health data about children with hip dysplasia. This information helps researchers and doctors improve patient care and outcomes for people of all ages.

Due to Emily's family history, Eloise was fortunate to receive early screening and treatment. However, Emily expressed heartfelt concern about children with no family history or obvious signs or symptoms. “How would they (parents) know what to look for?" she questioned. Without these signs or symptoms, hip dysplasia might go undiagnosed, leading to serious health issues later in life.

A message to Victorian parents 

"I would encourage other parents to get involved," Emily said. "The researchers are lovely, and it was a really easy process to sign up. The (online) surveys were quick to complete,” and “it feels good to know that our contribution will help others in the future."

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