“Waiting two years for a hip replacement feels impossible.”

I’m 51 and was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my left hip in February 2025. I’ve been offered either a steroid injection or a hip replacement—but I’ve been told I would have to wait 104 weeks for treatment.

My job involves visiting clients in their homes, climbing stairs, and long drives. Because of my hip, I’ve had to go through occupational health to get adjustments. I now have regular breaks, a supportive chair, and restricted stair use—but I’ve still had to take time off while changes were made. I worry every day about whether I’ll be able to do my job safely and properly.

At home, I have a teenage child and grandchildren I love spending time with. I want to be able to play with them, help around the house, and be active with them—but my hip pain and lack of mobility make even simple things like getting dressed, using stairs, or doing housework exhausting.

Physically, my right hip has been compensating for my left, and it’s starting to deteriorate too. I’ve been told it may need treatment in the future, which makes the long wait even harder to bear.

The pain isn’t just physical—it affects my mental wellbeing too. I feel frustrated, worried, and exhausted. I miss being able to take part in family life, and I hate that my limitations affect the people I love.

I just want to move without pain, do my job safely, and be active with my family again. Waiting two years feels impossible—and it shouldn’t be this way.

No one should have to wait this long for care.