Charity status achieved

Sarah Twomey moved to address a lack of information on hip dysplasia by setting up Healthy Hips Australia (HHA) earlier this year.

Hip dysplasia is a failure of the hip joints to develop normally, which over time decreases function in the joints.

After five months of work, HHA has been registered as a health promotion charity, allowing it to fundraise around the country.

In another boost, the charity received a $20,000 grant from Real Insurance to establish play and support groups and to make hip dysplasia-friendly toys and equipment available for hire.

“Our main goal for the coming months is to make every parent aware of the potential signs and symptoms of hip dysplasia and educate about the risk of incorrect swaddling leading to unnecessary incidences of the condition,” Ms Twomey said.

Ms Twomey, whose own daughters have had the condition, said HHA’s future work was dependent on donations and volunteers.

“I am passionate about this and have dedicated my time to it out of love for my girls and wanting to make a difference,” she said.

“I built the website for under $100 myself, but other services we want to offer require funds.”