My Scoliosis Story
Hi! My name is Michelle, I am 27 years old living in California. I was diagnosed with Scoliosis in 6th grade when growing up in Sweden. Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. It is much more than aesthetic, it can cause back pain, trouble breathing, pinched nerves, depression, deformation and so much more. Severe cases require spinal fusion surgery to correct the curve. After wearing a Boston Brace for 2 years I was out of time, I needed surgery ASAP. I remember being really disappointed and feeling scared for my future. Before Scoliosis my big dream was to be a professional tennis player, this dream was shattered with my diagnosis.
Learning to Live with Chronic Pain
Surgery and recovery was hell for me and for my family. After surgery my pain never really subsided, x-rays did not show anything wrong. I was in and out of the hospital for pain management for 2 years before we got the news. I had developed a deep infection within my abdomen, most likely caused by the titanium rods and screws placed in my spine, which was completely undetected for two years. I was immediately admitted to have the titanium removed as well as the infection. I was lucky to survive. I took antibiotics for six months following. This significantly changed my course of life. I have had different side effects ever since. I haven’t been pain-free since, so I had to learn to live with chronic pain.
I want to help people others who are in pain
Fast forward 10 years to present day as you see me in the photo above. I am currently five weeks post op from my 3rd spinal surgery. Just one of the steps needed to help ease my daily pain.
I haven’t let my back totally stop me though, I educated myself in physical training, coaching and nutrition and took control over my body. My wish is to help others in pain not only due to Scoliosis, live active and healthy lives! My experiences have definitely made me a strong individual and possibly made me the woman I am today. I have lost a lot but also gained so much perspective that I would not trade, never give up!
