Let's talk about PFFD: Matt and Gwen's story Artwork

Steps Charity Worldwide

Every day thousands of children are affected by a serious lower limb condition. These leg conditions vary in their symptoms, frequency and prognosis. But without the correct diagnosis, treatment and support, it would be impossible for any of these children to walk properly later in life. We have created a model of true local sustainability. We partner with health national systems and communities around the world not only to raise the medical standards, care and emotional support – but to establish them! The support we provide is elevating the standards of care around the world, giving a chance to everybody to walk without pain. As we like to say here at Steps, we don’t take walking for granted. One of the most basic support people need, when diagnosed with a lower limb condition, is to be able to talk to someone about their concerns. This is the reason why thousands of families and adults contact our Helpline every year. However, we recognise that many people would prefer to listen to another person or family that has been or is going through the same treatment in their own time and at their own paste. The Steps Podcasts have been created with this in mind. For you to hear how families and individuals have approached their lower limb condition, how it has or is still impacting them and how they overcame some key challenges. These podcasts are not meant to provide you with condition-specific information or practical guidance but they are intended to provide you with an opportunity to listen to other families and adults who are or have gone through the same as you to lessen your feelings of isolation. If you wish to speak to one of our Helpline advisors or require condition-specific information please call us on +44 1925 750271 or email info@steps-charity.org.uk

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Steps Charity Worldwide

Let's talk about PFFD: Matt and Gwen's story

August 15, 2021 • Steps Charity Worldwide

In this episode we talk to Matt and Gwen. Matt, although originally from the UK, currently lives in Malta and is the proud father of Gwen.

Gwen is an inspirational Gozitan girl who loves dancing, reading, eating pizza and playing with her brother William. Gwen was diagnosed at birth with Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency. It sounds very complicated but when you look at each word individually it is actually a very good description of the condition.

Proximal – nearest the point of attachment or centre of the body
Femoral – the thigh bone or femur
Focal – a focus or starting point
Deficiency – shorter or less than the normal amount

In other words, the end of the thigh bone closest to the hip is too short or not completely developed. In most cases, the hip joint is also not well developed.

Gwen currently wears a prosthetic leg which allows her to do pretty much everything she wants!

Listen to this inspiration podcast where dad takes us through his journey of understanding the condition and Gwen clearly explains to all of us why we should be her friend!