A year ago, Claudia Chetty's world revolved around pain.
Living with rheumatoid arthritis, the severe damage to her left hip had robbed her of her independence. Simple tasks such as walking, standing and completing household chores had become exhausting, while the constant pain left her feeling as though life had come to a standstill.
In July 2025, through Busamed Gateway Private Hospital's UniversalCare@Busamed Mandela Day initiative, Claudia received a life-changing hip replacement at no cost. The procedure, performed by orthopaedic surgeon Dr Michael Coleman, offered her something she had almost lost – hope.
One year later, Claudia says the surgery has transformed every aspect of her life.
"The difference has been life-changing. Before my surgery, I was living with constant pain that affected every part of my life. Today, one year later, I can honestly say I have my life back. I can move freely, live independently, and enjoy each day without the pain that once controlled me," she said.
The contrast between her life before and after the surgery is remarkable.
"Before the surgery, even the simplest daily tasks felt impossible. Walking, standing and doing basic household chores were exhausting and painful. Now, my days are completely different. I wake up without fear of pain, I stay active, I can go about my daily routine, and I enjoy living instead of just trying to get through each day."
The operation has also opened doors that once seemed out of reach.
"My recovery has allowed me to focus on opportunities that I couldn't have managed before. Instead of being limited by pain, I now have the energy and confidence to work towards my goals and build a better future. It's been an incredible journey of regaining both my independence and my purpose."
For Claudia, it's often the ordinary moments that mean the most.
"Being able to walk comfortably, climb stairs, go shopping, drive, stand for longer periods, and simply move without pain are things I never take for granted anymore. These everyday moments remind me how much my life has changed."
Beyond the physical improvements, the surgery has restored something equally important – her confidence and joy.
"Living without constant pain has completely changed my outlook on life. I'm happier, more positive, and much more confident. I no longer feel trapped by my condition, and I have hope for the future again."
She has also been able to reconnect with the people who matter most.
"I can now spend meaningful time with my family and friends without worrying about pain or needing to sit down all the time. I can participate in activities that I had stopped doing, and those moments are incredibly special to me."
One memory from the past year stands out above all others.
"The moment I realised how much my life had changed was when I noticed I had gone through an entire day without thinking about my hip or being in pain. That was something I hadn't experienced in years, and it made me appreciate how far I had come."
Although recovery required patience and determination, Claudia says every milestone reminded her that she was moving towards a brighter future.
"There were challenging days, but every small improvement motivated me to keep going. Each milestone – from walking more comfortably to regaining my strength – was a reminder that the surgery was changing my life for the better."
Looking back, she remains deeply grateful to everyone who made her journey possible.
"I want to express my deepest gratitude to Dr Michael Coleman, the Busamed Gateway team, and everyone who cared for me. Thank you for your professionalism, kindness, and dedication. You didn't just perform a surgery – you gave me my life back, and I will always be grateful for everything you have done."
Claudia also has a heartfelt message for others living with chronic pain or waiting for their own life-changing procedure.
"Don't lose hope. I know how overwhelming chronic pain can be because I've lived through it. Trust the process, believe in your medical team, and stay positive. Recovery takes time, but it is worth every step. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and life can get better."
As she looks ahead, Claudia is embracing the future with optimism.
"My goal is to continue living an active, healthy life and make the most of every opportunity. I want to enjoy time with my loved ones, pursue my dreams, and appreciate the freedom that being pain-free has given me."
Reflecting on the impact of the UniversalCare@Busamed programme, she says its gift extended far beyond the operating theatre.
"UniversalCare@Busamed gave me more than a hip replacement – it gave me hope, freedom, independence, and a second chance at life. I will always be thankful for the opportunity and the incredible care I received."
One year after taking her first pain-free steps, Claudia's story is a powerful reminder that access to quality healthcare can do more than restore mobility. It can restore dignity, confidence, independence and the opportunity to truly live again.
Catch up on Claudia's journey:
Read about her initial surgery from last year in “A Life No Longer on Hold” – Claudia's Hip Replacement Brings New Hope.
