Meet Gracie - a patient who was seen by our spine experts. Learn more about her journey below.

Blog written by Gracie, of Dallas. 

Hello! My name is Gracie and I am 5 years old. Do you like to dance? I do!! I also have scoliosis.
 
I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was just a baby. I was only 6 months old when I had my first set of X-rays - we learned that my spine curve was 78°. I have been coming to Scottish Rite for treatment since I was just 8 months old. My doctor is Dr. McIntosh, but I like to call her Dr. Mac!
 
When I was an infant, my mom would bring me to Scottish Rite every 2 – 3 months to get a cast to try and help the curve in my spine. As I got older, I would outgrow my casts and have to get new ones because I was getting bigger. Once, my doctor tried letting me just wear a brace. That didn’t work too well because I would always take it off. I ended up getting the cast put back on.
 
Finally, after a difficult decision, my doctor and parents decided I should have a surgery to help my curve. Yes, I had to have back surgery! Dr. Mac put growing rods in my spine. It went very well and now I have a smaller curve. 
 
After my surgery, I stayed at Scottish Rite for four nights. Since everyone has to be extra careful because of COVID, I could not have visitors, so I would make videos for my mommy to send our family and friends. I also like these videos because I can remember what I went through and share my story with you guys. When my mommy and I were there, the doctors and nurses and people in Child Life were all very welcoming to us.

My scoliosis surgery did not change how I live my life. Why? Because I still do what I do best - dance because I am happy! I also love to cheer and play with my little sister.

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