Miliana returns to Vanuatu after successful hip surgery

Pictured above prior to surgery (left to right) ROMAC Central Chair Judi-Marie Brown, Miliana, and her mother Maria.

ROMAC Central volunteers welcomed Miliana and her mother Maria to Adelaide late last month.

Miliana had been diagnosed with a right slipped upper femoral epiphysis, a painful hip condition requiring specialist surgical care at Adelaide Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

Miliana was in theatre for a two-hour operation to insert a screw into each hip to stabilise the joints.

Meanwhile, Maria was happily entertained by the wonderful Captains Starlight, who helped pass the time as she waited for Miliana to return to the ward.

The surgery was successful, and Miliana stayed in hospital overnight for observation and recovery.

Encouragingly, Miliana did not need to use the crutches which had been her walking aids for the past year.

She was discharged from hospital and later follow-up X-rays and assessment found no problems and she was medically cleared to fly home.

Dental treatment was also provided for Maria, with a procedure resulting in her becoming pain-free, greatly improving her comfort and well-being during her stay.

During their time in Adelaide, Miliana and Maria stayed with ROMAC Central Committee Members Wendy O’Connor and Chairperson Judi‑Marie Brown. Other ROMAC Central members generously hosted them for meals and outings, allowing them to experience warmth, friendship, and the broader Adelaide community.

Miliana and Maria also met District 9510 Governor Rajeev Kamineni, District Governor‑Elect Tim Mee, and District Governor‑Nominee Damian Leach, at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Morialta — a moment which highlighted the strong Rotary support for ROMAC. 

ROMAC Central is pleased to support Miliana and her family on this journey and extends sincere thanks to all medical staff, volunteers, host families, Rotarians, and supporters who helped make this care possible.

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