On the 28th of June 2025, I will be joining a team of amazing people with scoliosis and spinal fusions to hike up Snowdon. We are fundraising for Scoliosis Support & Research—the UK’s only scoliosis charity—which aims to support those with scoliosis and spinal fusions by building awareness and funding research.

My story...

As some of you will be aware, I underwent spinal fusion surgery in August 2023 after discovering that my scoliosis had slowly progressed since my diagnosis at the age of 16. This was a significant surgery, lasting 7 hours, and involved the insertion of 2 titanium rods and 23 screws to realign my spine (sorry to those who are squeamish!). The first words my surgeon said afterward were, “All went well, Ellen. We have fused you from T2 to T12.” This was a relief to hear, as he had considered fusing into my lumbar spine, which would have restricted my mobility further.

Since that moment, my recovery has far exceeded my expectations—I returned to work within weeks (albeit remotely at first), was swimming after a month, and most importantly, got back to the driving range by month three. Now, at nearly the two-year point, I am so grateful for the decision I made and haven’t looked back since. I’ve fully returned to golf and even managed a week of skiing last year!

While I’ve had a positive experience, others undergo more significant and complex surgeries that can take many months to recover from. Additionally, some people struggle with the continued management of a fused spine.

Very little is known about what causes scoliosis, which surprises me, as it impacts around 5% of the population (though only a lucky few within that 5% require corrective surgery). Scoliosis Support & Research aims to provide support and information, raise awareness, and fund research to improve quality of life and empower everyone affected by scoliosis and other related spinal conditions.

Any donations, big or small, would be greatly appreciated 😊

If you're interested, feel free to ask to see my x-rays—I have no problem sharing!

Your Fused Friend,

Ellen