A young man diagnosed with a rare childhood disease recently underwent a double hip replacement at the age of 23, despite initially being told he would have to wait 22 years for the necessary surgery. Jack, a resident of Dublin, was diagnosed with a rare condition that affected the femoral head of his femur, which is crucial for the hip joint. Although he lived without symptoms for years, he began experiencing severe pain at 18, only to be informed that he was too young for the surgery.
Jack shared his frustration, stating that despite being aware of the urgent need for a hip replacement, he was informed that his age made him ineligible for the procedure. The disease that affected Jack’s hips is called Perthes, impacting a small percentage of children annually. Jack described his childhood experiences with the disease, mentioning chronic pain, a limp, and limitations in sports activities.
After years of relatively good health, Jack’s pain resurfaced in adulthood, leading to a diagnosis of deteriorating hip structures and potential arthritis. Despite being warned about the risks of a double hip replacement, Jack’s persistence paid off when he found a surgeon willing to conduct the surgery earlier than expected. Following the successful procedure in February 2025, Jack noted improvements in his quality of life, primarily the absence of pain.
Before the surgery, Jack struggled with chronic pain on a daily basis, affecting his ability to work, study, and socialize. The surgery marked a significant turning point for him, relieving him from constant agony and allowing him to return to a more active lifestyle. Jack’s journey, including his recovery and insights into living with hidden health issues at a young age, resonated with many on social media, particularly on TikTok.
Jack aims to raise awareness for young individuals facing chronic pain and hidden disabilities, emphasizing the importance of taking such conditions seriously in healthcare settings. He believes that despite outward appearances, young people’s health concerns should be acknowledged and addressed appropriately. To follow Jack’s advocacy and personal journey, you can find him on TikTok under the username @jack__brennan.