I have 23 bolts in my spine and 2 rods. Here is my story. Scoliosis is where the spine curves once or twice. I was diagnosed with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis when I turned 15. Idiopathic means to have no known cause. At 17 my spinal curvature was so excessive I had to undergo a 5 hour operation to have my spine fused so that it was no longer curved to such an extreme. Just before the operation the top curve of my spine was 50 degrees and the bottom curve was 60 degrees. My condition progressed rapidly within that 2 years. Regardless of my condition (that has been rectified) I am now going to take part in the charity event in Brighton called the colour run, a 5 KM run with obstacle courses. This will certainly be a challenge for me. Although my spine is less curved, I still experience the same pain, so for me this is going to be a tiring but hopefully enjoyable day. I hope you are able to donate today, and any money raised will be donated straight to the Scoliosis Association (UK).

- Andy (College student)