Millie is 13 years old and she is a keen dancer, she loves all types of sports and gymnastics, people who are acquainted with Millie know how active she is, and she is always out and about on her roller boots and scooter.

Millie was diagnosed in 2015 with severe scoliosis. Scoliosis is the curvature of the spine, when we last had an x-ray Millie’s curve of the spine has elevated to a degree of 60/65. She has worn a back brace for the past 3 years to sleep in but unfortunately this has not worked. The rehabilitation specialist said surgery is now the only option. On the healthcare system they only use the Harrington procedure which is a metal rod fusion, we know this procedure works but she would have very limited flexibility and minimal quality of life, she would also never be able to dance or do gymnastics again. The Traumatologist said that she would also need to wear a brace for 22 hours a day whilst she continues to grow and they would only be able to operate on her in a few years’ time.

As parents we want to give Millie the best opportunity in life that she deserves. I have met with Dr Juan Carlos Olaverri a private surgeon in Barcelona, he is one of only 20 surgeons in the world who perform this procedure, he performs the VBT - Vertical Body Tethering and ASC - Anterior Scoliosis Correction procedures which are a lot less invasive and recovery is much quicker, this will allow Millie to continue to grow hopefully without any further problems. The operation is lateral, but instead of a metal rod it incorporates a flexible cord into the side, which will allow the spine to straighten more as she grows. Dr Olaverri has advised that this procedure needs to be done sooner rather than later due to her age and expected growth spurts.

Surgery is scheduled for the 4th of February 2019. It will be necessary for Millie to be in hospital for 7 days, and then a further 2 weeks nearby in an apartment for aftercare from the Surgeon. The cost of this procedure is in the region of 60,000€ .

We are looking at fundraising suggestions and any merchandise or ideas that could be auctioned or donated.

If there is anything that you can do or help with in any way it would be greatly appreciated.

We have set up a go fund me page please contact myself Emma or Steve Grundy for further information or to make a donation.