Hello! As some of you may know I had a spinal fusion in 2008 at age 11 for severe scoliosis, after having to wear a brace for a while - not fun at all at any age let alone 11. If you didn't, you now know why I regularly complain about seats with hard backs, can't stand in queues for too long and why standing gigs are my worst nightmare - I'm not just lazy (that's a separate problem! :D)

In all seriousness, I have always felt very alone in my journey, and struggled with body confidence and low mood. I've never met anyone else with scoliosis or a spinal fusion.

I discovered Curva (formerly Build & Breathe) online pilates for those with scoliosis or a spinal fusion a couple of years ago. It was so lovely as I've never been able to do normal pilates or yoga as my spinal fusion means I have a total lack of flexibility. I don't remember what it's like to be able to turn round properly!

This year they're organising a trek up Mount Snowdon in Wales to raise money for Scoliosis Support & Research. Before thinking, I signed up for it! Anyone who knows me knows I'm not exactly the fittest person on the planet, but I've started to train hard for it and I'm so excited to meet other people in the same position.

It's a brilliant cause, for example the charity connects those who have been newly diagnosed with people with lived experience of the condition - I didn't experience this when I was diagnosed and I think it would have been really helpful. They also research into new surgical options such as VBT rather than a spinal fusion that can result in less limitations in your daily life.

If anyone would like to donate or share my page I would be so grateful.

Thank you so much for your support! <3

Amanda