Benfleet girl with bone condition up for BBC bravery award

Millie, eight, from Benfleet, has been cared for throughout her life by dedicated staff at Basildon and Broomfield hospitals.

At just 16 days old, Millie, whose surname the Echo has withheld at her family’s request, was diagnosed with hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joints do not develop properly.

She was treated by the orthopaedic and physiotherapy teams at Basildon Hospital.

Millie later developed Perthes’ disease in her right hip, which limited her movement and caused severe pain.

She is now receiving specialised treatment at Broomfield Hospital, where a team led by Pranai Buddhdev monitors her condition and provides essential medication to help her bones form properly.

Brave - Millie and her mum Michelle (Image: Mid and South Essex NHS Trust)

Pranai Buddhdev, consultant paediatric orthopaedic surgeon and the head of orthopaedic research at Broomfield Hospital, said: “Millie and her family showed tremendous strength and determination and it’s been our privilege to care for them.

“Despite having multiple rare conditions, her positive attitude and involvement in the decisions about her care have helped us achieve the best outcome without needing surgery so far.

“We are so proud of her. She is a true inspiration.”

With great bravery, Millie continues her recovery journey and recently shared her story with her classmates at school.

Through a presentation, she explained her condition and why she is unable to run, jump or participate in high-impact activities with her friends, which played a key role in her nomination for the BBC Make a Difference Awards.

Millie’s Mum, Michelle, added: “Millie is our real-life wonder woman.

“She faced so many challenges at such a young age with incredible strength that continues to amaze us.

“Being nominated for the BBC Make a Difference Awards shows her remarkable spirit, and I can’t thank both hospital teams enough for their care and efforts.”