My name is Semi (pronounced Shay-mii) and turn 15 next week. (☺)!! I was diagnosed with Scoliosis 2 years ago. This means that my spine is S-shaped and has resulted in a hump on my lower left side. I have back pain and my body is angled to the left.

Unfortunately my condition worsened, so much so that last June the doctors recommended surgery to be done as soon as possible. Scoliosis causes severe back pain, reduced lung function & breathing difficulty and body disfigurement.

I was devastated. I’m an avid dancer (contemporary, modern & hip hop) and recommended option was a Posterior spinal fusion – the only option offered in the UK. It involves the fusion of vertebra and use of metal rods. It has the shortcoming of permanently limiting spine flexibility – more so as I am unlucky to have double curvatures.

I am currently eligible for a proven surgical method in the US that can help me recover fully from this painful condition. It is called Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT). This fusionless option helps my spine align back to normal, easing the pain & the stress on my internal organs, and allows full flexibility & quicker recovery. As VBT is offered to skeletally immature patients, it is crucial that I get the surgery done as soon as possible.

I want to live as normal of a life as I can. I enjoy and love dancing. My parents are doing everything they can for me, but unfortunately, the cost of this surgery ($155,000 or £130,000) is one they cannot afford.

I’d be eternally grateful if you could donate and help me get the VBT surgery so I can have a straight yet flexible spine and continue to dance.

Thank you.