Israel

Hi! My name is Ness. I’m 18 years old and from Boston, MA. I finished school this year and I am moving to Israel to study in Tel Aviv while connecting with my family and background there. I love food. Meals are when my family spends the most time together, so I’ve come to appreciate mealtime for multiple reasons. We can be adventurous but also always return to simple favorites like toast with mayo, spice, cheese, tomato and egg , dubbed the “family sandwich” for breakfast-- the most important meal of the day.

I was diagnosed with scoliosis in 2012 after my mom noticed something off with how I walked. It turned out that one of my legs was growing faster than the other, contributing to curve in my spine. In 2015 I started wearing a Boston brace to combat the change. When the difference in my legs became a risk to my back, I had surgery to stop growth in the longer leg to allow them to even out as I grew. Eager to do anything to help my scoliosis, I continue to do Schroth therapy.

When I wore a brace, it felt isolating to be the only one with scoliosis. There are so many things I would have done differently. I wish someone had told younger me about brace undershirts, physical therapy, mental health, etc. I hope that by being a Curvy Girls Leader, I can provide the support, outlet, and information that I didn't have to any girl that needs or wants it.