The sister of a woman who was treated for curvature of the spine will give back to the charity which supported her.
Alexia O’Rourke's younger sister Freya, 20, was treated for scoliosis at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) Charity in Stanmore, London.
She underwent spinal fusion after being diagnosed with the condition in November 2020 and had a second operation to remove a prominent piece of metal work in June last year.
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Alexia, 23, who lives in Heaton, Newcastle, will take on the Gateshead 10k on April 30 to raise money for the The RNOH Charity, which supports the work of the hospital. She hopes to thank them for supporting Freya by raising more than £150 on Just Giving.
Alexia, who is studying an MA in Professional Translation for European Languages with French and Chinese at Newcastle University, said: "Throughout her time in hospital for both surgeries, Freya was supported by an incredible team of surgeons, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, radiographers and more who provided incredible ongoing care for my younger sister.
"Despite the difficulties during COVID and lockdowns, they have continued to be supportive and attentive to her needs and that of all our family, I will be forever grateful for this.
"I am looking forward to the race and have been undertaking 5k and 10k part runs around my local area for my training."
Freya, who lives in Lincoln, is waiting to undergo another spinal surgery. She is currently on a gap year from Lincoln University where she is studying Sports and Exercise Therapy.
Freya said: "I am very proud and grateful for my sister for all of the effort that she is putting in to raise money for the most amazing hospital."
According to the NHS, Scoliosis is a condition where the spine twists and curves to the side. It can affect people of any age, but most often starts in children aged 10 to 15.
The RNOH treats patients of all ages suffering from neuro musculoskeletal conditions, including spinal cord injuries, bone cancer, scoliosis and acute hip and knee problems.
The RNOH charity has recently launched its new campaign, "Impossible, Possible" to raise awareness of the work carried out by the hospital and the charity.
The money raised will be used to help fund:
- Overall improvements to the patient experience and clinical research
- State-of-the art imaging equipment
- Transformation of the spinal cord injury centre’s day room
- Further pioneering musculoskeletal research and ground-breaking developments
Vicky Brady, community fundraising manager of the RNOH Charity, said: "It is wonderful to hear from Alexia how supportive Freya and her family felt during her treatment.
"It can be nerve wracking for anyone undergoing surgery, let alone someone as young as Freya, so she is very brave.
"Without people like Alexia’s fundraising efforts, we couldn't do what we do supporting those who need it most. We wish her the very best of luck for the race."
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