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I had my surgery in November 2019 in the National Orthopaedic Hospital Cappagh and it has honestly given me a new lease of life. During my treatment, I met some other teenagers with scoliosis at the Straight2Swimming Scoliosis swimming group in the Curragh Camp. It was reassuring to see others who had scoliosis. It showed me how you can still get on with your life with this condition and it showed me that I was not alone. I want to let other kids with scoliosis and their parents know that even if you have scoliosis and need a brace and/or surgery, that there are amazing people out there that can help you with your condition and improve your life for the better.

I was 13 when I was diagnosed with scoliosis. When I was waiting for surgery, I found social media to be very helpful to connect with other scoliosis patients. One of my closest friends also had scoliosis and she was waiting for surgery at the same time. It was nice to have a friend going through the same thing. We were able to relate to each other and it helped me to process the whole aspect of surgery. It was also great to know someone else with scoliosis, as I did not feel as alone. I think scoliosis has changed my life in many ways and it has made me more resilient. Scoliosis has helped me to appreciate my body and to understand that everyone is unique in their own way.

To celebrate International Scoliosis Awareness Day, which takes place on Saturday 27th June, we are launching the ‘Scoliosis Warriors’ campaign to acknowledge the strength and tenacity of young Scoliosis patients. We want to create greater public awareness of scoliosis, promote education, and bring together those affected by the condition. Through the ‘Scoliosis Warriors’ campaign, the hospital hopes to bring together former patients online and give them a platform to share their scoliosis story and provide hope for others. We hope you will join in the conversation on our social channels and look forward to hearing your unique story.

Running out of things to do in self-isolation? Get creative in the kitchen this long weekend and contribute to an amazing cause. The Cappagh Hospital Foundation is raising money to fund a dedicated Paediatric Outpatient Clinic for the boys and girls who receive treatment at the Hospital.