By Jeanne Loo

I never expected the word scoliosis to become such a defining part of my story—especially not in adulthood. As a young woman, I poured myself into the arts. I studied at the Juilliard School to become a concert pianist, trained in ballet and modern dance, explored martial arts, and performed with passion and discipline. I never felt limited by my body, never experienced back pain, and never knew I had a spinal curve quietly growing with me.

It wasn’t until my early 50s, after a routine jog, that I began to feel discomfort in my left hip. Several years later, at age 58, an X-ray finally revealed the truth: I had idiopathic scoliosis. I was stunned.

Still, I was determined not to let the diagnosis define me.

My doctor assured me that I could live well without surgery as long as I stayed active, avoided smoking and alcohol, and maintained a healthy weight. So, I doubled down on my wellness routine. Yoga, ballroom dancing, strength training, and daily walks became my therapy. Through this, I realized that scoliosis might shape my spine, but it would not shape my spirit.

To help heal my self-image, I took a bold leap: I entered the world of beauty pageants. It wasn’t about the crown—it was about reclaiming my confidence. I had a pageant gown specially designed to conceal my curve, and in doing so, I began to reveal parts of myself that scoliosis could never touch: resilience, grace, and determination.

I also sought specialized physical therapy. Schroth therapy and intentional core training became part of my daily life. I learned how to breathe with awareness, strengthen my posture, and support my spine from the inside out. With each therapy session, I felt more capable, more connected to my body, and more in control of my journey.

However, scoliosis is complex. Over time, my curve progressed. At age 68, an MRI showed a 47-degree Cobb angle. Though I still wasn’t in pain, I could no longer dance with the same freedom. My torso appeared unbalanced, and standing for long periods became exhausting. I feared what the next few years might hold if the progression continued.

After much reflection and research, I chose to meet with Dr. Shay Bess, a spinal surgeon who listened not just to my symptoms but to my hopes, fears, and determination. Despite not being in pain, I knew I didn’t want to wait until I was. I wanted to take action while I was still strong, and thankfully, Dr. Bess supported my proactive approach.

I had spinal fusion surgery on September 20, 2023—and it was the best decision I could’ve made. Thanks to years of preparation, a healthy lifestyle, and an incredible support system of friends, family, and my dance community, my recovery was smoother than I ever imagined.

Healing was not just physical—it was emotional and empowering. I leaned into who I truly was beyond the curve: vibrant, thoughtful, joyful, and resilient. I focused on developing qualities that scoliosis had actually strengthened in me: patience, grit, and self-compassion.

Now, almost 18 months post-op, I no longer feel the need to hide my scoliosis. Instead, I embrace it as part of my story—a story that has made me stronger, more graceful, and more committed than ever to supporting others walking this path.

To those facing scoliosis, whether newly diagnosed or deep in your journey: you are not alone. You are powerful. You are worthy of support. And most of all, you are capable of living a full, beautiful life.

Scoliosis may curve our spines, but it can never curve our spirit. Let's rise together—stronger, straighter, and prouder than ever.