Keep me dancing

Hi, I'm Steph. I'm a professional singer and dancer in an Abba Tribute band. I have been performing since I could walk and talk. Let me tell you about my story.

Back in 2017, I had a bad fall off my skateboard which led me to go to the walk-in centre. They told me at this stage that I hadn't broken any bones in my leg and the pain I was feeling was soft tissue damage likely a ligament tear that would heal over time.

In February of 2023, I fell backwards off a 4ft stage onto my left side which happened to be the same leg I hurt back with my skateboard. Again, I had a trip to the walk in centre a few days after (because I was working at the time) they gave me x-rays on my chest to check for broken bones but nothing on my leg, stating again that it was soft tissue damage.

I continued daily with the pain getting worse each passing month, til I couldn't cope anymore. I went to the doctors again for pain management such a physio. They sent me for an Mri and a day later I got my results. I had torn my Meniscus (your knee shock absorber) very badly and referred me to surgery.

After waiting 3 months to see the consultant, he told me the only option I had was to have knee surgery and couldn't advise the waiting time.

I'm in constant pain everyday and my leg is getting more unstable as well. I am currently loosing my job because of my knee and with each month passing it get worse.

I've been told it could be anything up to 2 years waiting for the surgery.

However, to save my job and knee, I am able to get the surgery privately in April 2024. The issue being, I have to pay £5K for this and with loosing my job currently, I am struggling to find the funds.

I have never been the type to ask for help but I know right now that I am struggling and have come to a wall as I have no way to get the funds for the surgery.

Please help. Even a little spare change can help me save my knee from further damage and keep me dancing.