The Power of Support in the Scoliosis Journey
Finding Strength in Community: Why Asking for Help Matters
For many of us facing scoliosis, the idea of asking for help can feel foreign, even uncomfortable. Whether it’s pride, fear, or a sense of independence, we often hesitate to reach out. But as Terri McDonald shared in our latest podcast episode, support can be the key to not only making difficult decisions like surgery but also navigating the healing process afterward.
Terri’s Journey: From Isolation to Community
Terri was diagnosed with scoliosis later in life, at age 50. Like many, she didn’t initially recognize the need for support. She adapted to her condition over time, finding ways to manage discomfort and continuing her life as normally as possible. But after a fall that exacerbated her spinal issues, she found herself in a position where she could no longer ignore the progression of her scoliosis.
After cycling through doctors, pain management treatments, and conflicting advice, she eventually met with a surgeon who recommended spinal fusion. The thought was overwhelming. Terri was scared. She wasn’t ready to take the leap into surgery, and she felt completely alone.
Then, something changed.
Her doctor connected her with someone who had been through it—someone who could answer her questions from personal experience. That conversation shifted everything for Terri. She realized that talking to people who had walked the same path could help her feel prepared and less alone.
The Importance of Support in Scoliosis Care
Terri’s story highlights a truth that so many of us in the scoliosis community understand: having support makes all the difference. Whether it’s a friend, a fellow patient, a medical professional, or an online community, surrounding yourself with people who understand your journey is invaluable.
Here’s why:
Shared Experience Brings Clarity – Doctors provide medical expertise, but only someone who has lived through scoliosis surgery can truly relate to the emotional and physical toll it takes. Hearing real-life experiences helps answer the questions that medical textbooks can’t.
Emotional Strength Through Connection – Fear can be paralyzing. Talking to someone who has made it through to the other side offers hope and reassurance that life does go on after surgery.
Knowing You’re Not Alone – Scoliosis, especially in adulthood, can feel isolating. Connecting with others helps remove that loneliness and fosters a sense of belonging.
Learning to Accept Help
Terri admitted that she struggled to accept help. She had always been the caregiver, not the one needing care. But after surgery, she had no choice—her body required rest and assistance. Through that process, she learned that receiving help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a part of healing.
Here are some lessons from her experience:
It’s okay to let people in. Whether it’s a spouse, a friend, or a professional caregiver, leaning on others is a necessity, not a failure.
Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to press your doctor for answers or seek second and third opinions.
Take one step at a time. Setting small goals during recovery helps build confidence and progress.
A Message to Those Facing Scoliosis Surgery
If you are considering surgery, know this: you don’t have to do this alone. Find a trusted friend, join a scoliosis support group, or connect with someone who has been in your shoes. The support you receive can be the difference between fear and confidence as you move forward.
As Terri put it, "All of that leading up to surgery was the hardest part. The everyday pain, the stress, the not knowing. But getting my questions answered gave me peace. It was instrumental in preparing me for what was to come."
Join Our Community Our scoliosis community is built on connection, shared experiences, and mutual support. Whether you’re pre-op, post-op, or managing scoliosis in other ways, there is a place for you here. Together, we rise above the curve.
