Help me get surgery so I can pursue my basketball career.

Please Help Me Get Back in the Game: Urgent £11k Surgery Needed

Hi, I’m Lukah. I’m 18 years old, and basketball is my passion. All I’ve ever wanted to do is be a professional athlete.

Since I was 5, I’ve dedicated my life to sports, training year-round, first in BMX (where I competed at the national and world level) and now in basketball. In 2023 I achieved a huge milestone, winning the National Under-16 Basketball Championship with my team in my very first season.

Why I Need Your Help

During the off-season, I suffered a subluxation of my left shoulder. The pain was unbearable, but I pushed through, working hard in physiotherapy to strengthen it. Unfortunately, the damage worsened, leading to a labral tear that has left my shoulder unstable. Now, surgery is the only way for me to continue playing at the level I’ve worked so hard to reach.

Without surgery, I won’t be able to pursue my dream of playing basketball professionally. 

This injury is the one thing standing between me and the career I’ve spent my whole life working toward.

Why I Can’t Wait for the NHS

The NHS wait time for my surgery is between 1.5 to 2 years plus 4 to 6 months of recovery. 

At 18, I don’t have that kind of time if I want to play at the highest level. 

I have been offered 2 places at high level basketball academies and the next two seasons are crucial for my development and career opportunities, and waiting that long would make it nearly impossible to compete at the level I need to.

What I Urgently Need

To get this surgery privately and recover in time for next season, I need to raise £11,000 this includes surgery and post-op physiotherapy. 

My family supports me in every way they can, but with the rising cost of living, they aren’t able to raise these funds in time while also supporting my younger sister.

How You Can Help

Donate 

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me one step closer to recovery and fulfilling my dream.

Share 

Spreading the word on social media or among friends and family could make all the difference.

Support 

If you know someone who might be able to help, please pass this on.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Any help, big or small, means the world to me.

THANK YOU

Lukah McKenzie 

My Athletic Achievements