New Zealand-Auckland

Hi! My name is Stella and I’m 16 years old from Auckland, New Zealand. My scoliosis was discovered when I was 14. The curve was in the lower part of my spine, causing my hips to go out of alignment and my legs to become uneven. At the time, I felt anxious, concerned and alone. I felt as though there was no one who could relate to my situation, nobody who understood. I began seeking support and I discovered that scoliosis was much more common than I thought! My surgery finally occurred in July 2023. It's been a challenging time since diagnosis, but ultimately I found that surgery has been the best decision for me.

I love school, especially English and Social Studies, and I enjoy extracurriculars such as debating, feminism club, and councils! In the future, I’d like to study law and global studies, focusing on issues in the world and how we can fight for them. Throughout my experience, I’ve learned how to persevere and seek help when needed.

While my journey with scoliosis has been a difficult one, I feel even more empowered to support girls in similar situations! My experience has given me a unique perspective on the world, allowing me to see things differently and expand my compassion for others. Supporting, encouraging and empowering girls with scoliosis is my biggest aim. If you have scoliosis, know that you are not alone and we’ve got your back. We can all learn from each other’s experiences!