California
Central Valley
Lauren
Hi! I'm Lauren, and I am currently a freshman in high school. I love playing tennis; I have been playing since I was five years old. I also enjoy reading, traveling, skiing, and spending time with friends and family.
My scoliosis journey began in 2018 when I was diagnosed with a mild curvature. At the time, I did not need bracing or surgery. So, for a year, I got x-rays every six-months to track the progression [if there was any]. Sadly, after about a year, my family and I found out that my curvature significantly increased. Since I was still growing, the doctor told us that my curve would probably worsen unless I got treatment. Therefore, my doctor recommended bracing to keep the curve in place. I soon received a Rigo-Cheneau brace, which I wore 17-18 hours a day. At first, I did not wear it to school because I was embarrassed. When I realized this is just who I am, I realized it was nothing to be ashamed of. Once I accepted that this is who I am, I no longer felt ashamed. I am currently weaning out of my brace since I have very little growth remaining.
I wanted to become a group leader to help form a community of empowerment and support for girls with scoliosis. I hope that all girls with scoliosis know that they are not alone. I did not have a support group like Curvy Girls, so I felt alone during most of my bracing journey. Now that I went through most of my bracing journey, I hope to make a difference in the scoliosis community!