Stephanie urgently needs a hip operation.

Dear family, friends and colleagues,

I’m asking for your help. I was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in my left hip in January ‘23. Despite 3 Doctor’s referrals, 1 Physiotherapist’s referral, 1 orthopaedic surgeon’s referral, I am categorised as “Level 3” ie “not urgent” and I have been waiting nearly a year to see a specialist. Only after that can I get on the waiting list for hip surgery.

If I wait another year, which is a possibility given the current long waiting lists for hospital surgeries, I will be in a wheelchair and a burden for someone to look after – and cost the tax-payer more for disability support.

My condition has deteriorated significantly this year while just waiting for the specialist appointment. I’m having increasing difficulty walking, getting in and out of a car, doing the garden and home maintenance tasks. I have had to put on hold my community service work as a marriage and funeral celebrant.

So I have made the decision to try for support from my wide network of family, friends and colleagues. It is not easy asking for help, when you are used to being independent.

I know I have been a giving person throughout my life, as I was raised to be, through my music teaching and community service work. So maybe, just maybe, I might have clocked up some good karma and there’s no harm in giving this a go! I am ever hopeful.

I need $27,000 for a hip replacement operation in a private hospital.

I am deeply grateful for any donation anyone can make.