Join the Fight Against Scoliosis

I suffered from severe scoliosis with curves measuring 76 to over 100 degrees, along with hypokyphosis and rotation. My condition was first detected in November 2018 at 68 degrees and rapidly progressed, reaching 80.9 degrees by February 2019. The relentless pain and physical limitations caused by my spinal deformity significantly impacted my daily life and overall well-being.

As a highschooler, I had to drop out of many activities and my dance team because the pain became unbearable. I lost the ability to stand for extended periods and couldn't carry weight on my shoulders. Sleep became uncomfortable, and I had to interrupt my daily schedule to stretch and manage the pain. By my sophomore year in college, I relied on painkillers to get through days that required more walking. For four years, I slept on foam blocks just to find a comfortable position. The emotional distress caused by people commenting on my visibly deformed posture further compounded my condition.

Before opting for surgery, I exhausted all non-surgical treatment options. I underwent physical therapy using the Schroth method and attended a scoliosis-specific clinic with Dr. Mark Morningstar, following the ScoliSmart bootcamp for two weeks every six months for a year. I wore a back brace from 2019 to 2022, which caused discomfort during sleep and led to calluses where my back pressed against the brace. Despite these efforts, my scoliosis continued to worsen, and my left lung function became compromised due to the spinal distortion.

Delaying or forgoing surgery posed severe risks to my health and quality of life. Without intervention, my spinal curvature would have progressed further, leading to worsening pain, debilitation, and the development of arthritis and disc degeneration. The abnormal stresses on my spine could have impinged nerves, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness. Moreover, the distorted rib cage pressing on my heart and lungs would have compromised their function. I wanted to avoid metal-rod surgery because it will also mean 'stiff' spine for life. Postponing surgery would have increased the likelihood of requiring more extensive and risky procedures in the future.

Finally me and my parents found something. The ASC surgery performed by Dr. Antonacci was the least invasive option to provide correction and symptomatic relief for my severe scoliosis. This innovative procedure allowed for spinal correction without the need for posterior instrumentation, making it particularly suitable for younger patients like myself who have not found relief through other treatments. By prioritizing positive outcomes while minimizing surgical invasiveness, ASC offered a viable solution to prevent further deterioration of my condition.

Since undergoing the surgery, I have experienced remarkable improvements in my spinal alignment, pain levels, and overall function. The measurable straightening of my spine has significantly reduced my pain and enhanced my mobility. I can now engage in normal daily activities without constant discomfort or limitations. The visible improvement in my posture has boosted my self-esteem and freed me from the burden of living with a disfiguring deformity.

The long-term benefits of this surgery cannot be overstated. By correcting my spinal curvature, the procedure has improved my quality of life, allowing me to continue working and being a productive member of society. It has prevented the progression of spinal deterioration and the need for more debilitating surgeries in the future. The preserved spinal motion achieved through ASC reduces my risk of developing chronic back pain and arthritis later in life. One year after my surgery I was able to go skiing with my friends ( I am one in the middle) and I can do lot more activities now.

I am not a medical professional and I am not suggesting you get this surgery done but this surgery helped me a lot and that's why I am sharing my story. You can check with your doctor and see what's best for you. My surgery was not covered by my insurance or my parents insurance and not everyone can afford it. Purpose of this foundation is also to educate people about scoliosis and also to help people financially so they can hope for a pain-free life.