All I know is what it feels like to be crooked. When I was in elementary my scoliosis didn't affect me until I got my brace, which was a new experience. After elementary, I started growing faster, and my ribs started twisting and all that, but I didn't notice much, because it happened over time. So it's gradual, and you get used to it. It's all you ever know.
Thankfully, I didn't appear to be very crooked, for several reasons. For one, I have two curves that tend to balance each other out, so I don't lean very much to one side. Also, I wore a brace for about as long as I can remember, and I think that helped at least a little, despite the fact that my curves got worse. But I always felt crooked, as I still do, and that tends to bother people who like feeling symmetrical.
*Recently after getting my first brace in 5th grade
I was a normal kid who did normal kid things. I climbed trees, jumped on trampolines, played tackle football at recess, played instruments, etc. Other kids won't make fun of you if you think it's cool. Scoliosis will only stop you if you let it. And the same goes for braces and spinal fusions. I'm at college now, playing sports, pulling pranks, practicing a ton, working, 20 credits, and making all the good college memories.
I began having a lot of problems from scoliosis during my junior year of high school. Breathing became very difficult, especially during volleyball games. But there was no way that would stop me from playing. Practicing music and sitting in school became very difficult because of all the back, neck, and head pain I was experiencing.
*My last brace after surgery in 12th grade
Over all, I would say, yes-- scoliosis can be hard- very hard, actually. It can be painful. It can be emotional. But it's also psychological. It's what you make of it. I've learned to love my scoliosis, and as a result, God gets the glory and I can enjoy life, knowing that some day I'll be with Him in heaven, a much better place!
What an inspirational story! You are certainly to be viewed as a role model for other youths that have scoliosis. Thank you for being brave and sharing your experiences.
ReplyDeleteI have Scolosis and am going to have to get a brace. Mine is a mild bad but worse enough to have to wear a brace. I was wondering thought.
ReplyDeleteDo you wear it during volleyball or basketball games?
Even though I wore my brace 23 hours a day, my doctor let me take it off for sports too, since it's physical activity. Hope it goes well for you and that it's successful!
ReplyDeleteKatie