14 years of age at surgery

Finding Strength Through Scoliosis

My scoliosis journey began in the summer of 2013, when I was around 12 years old. It was my parents who first noticed something wasn’t quite right with my spine. My mum, who also has scoliosis, had always been aware of the possibility that one of her four daughters might inherit it—especially knowing that roughly her kids have a 1 in 5 chance.
From there, I was incredibly fortunate to be referred to our local children’s hospital, where I spent the next two years attending check-ups every three to six months. Early on, I was introduced to my surgeon, who would go on to become a huge support throughout my journey. The calm, kind approach helped me feel safe and understood—something that made a big difference for both me and my family.

Eventually, we were faced with two options: to wear a brace for at least a year, or to consider spinal fusion surgery sooner rather than later. It was a difficult decision, especially as I was in the middle of a very active chapter of my life—playing volleyball, doing surf lifesaving, running cross-country, and most importantly, dancing. I was also about to start high school, which added another layer of complexity.

My parents and I had long and thoughtful discussions, always coming back to what would support not just my physical health, but my happiness and lifestyle. After months of careful consideration and follow-up appointments, we made the decision to go ahead with spinal fusion surgery. It felt like the best path forward to allow me to continue doing what I loved, especially dancing.

On September 1st, 2015, I underwent a spinal fusion operation that lasted over eight hours. It was a major surgery—but a complete success. I’ll never forget the relief and gratitude we felt afterwards.

Remarkably, just six weeks after surgery, I returned to school. And only two weeks later—at the eight-week mark—I was back in the studio, dancing again. The progress I experienced was extraordinary. It’s a testament to the advances in scoliosis research, surgery, and rehabilitation. The difference in care and outcomes compared to when my mother had her spinal fusion in the 1980s is astonishing. I’m forever grateful to the researchers, doctors, surgeons, and specialists who continue to innovate in this space and improve lives.
I was incredibly lucky—my spinal curve was corrected to just 10 degrees post-surgery. I know not every case has that result, and I never take that for granted.

While I may not have exactly the same movement I had before spinal fusion—and there are certain moves I can no longer do—I like to say I’ve simply added my own flare to them. There’s still so much my spine can do, and every day it continues to surprise me. I live a very active lifestyle, as you can imagine, and even teach Lagree fitness alongside my dance career. I’ve learned how to adjust and adapt, developing new ways to approach tumbling and other physically demanding choreography safely—while still achieving the same impact and artistry.
The more I listened to, managed, and navigated my spine and its evolving needs, the more I found I could achieve. One standout moment was regaining my arabesque to where it was before surgery—a powerful reminder of what’s possible with patient rehabilitation, safe movement practices, and most importantly, giving my body the time it needed to rest, recover, and re-form within its “new spine.”

Since then, I’ve gone on to live the life I once feared might be out of reach. I completed a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Dance) in 2022, after three years of full-time training. It had been my dream since I was a child to dance professionally—and because of the care I received, I’ve been able to pursue that dream pain-free.
I’m now working as a professional contemporary dancer and dance educator. My practice is shaped by my scoliosis journey, exploring movement through the lens of an abnormal spine and pushing the possibilities of a body with spinal fusion.

I’ve had the privilege to work with major dance companies in Australia, as well as renowned festivals and artists, including Netflix, Australian Dance Theatre, OzAsia Festival, Illuminate Adelaide, Carclew, and the Adelaide Fringe Festival. I’ve also had opportunities to do placements and secondments across the country with leading Australian dance companies, including Sydney Dance Company, Australian Dance Collective, TASDance, Australian Dance Theatre, and Dancenorth.

In 2025, I was honoured to be named the South Australian Rose of Tralee. As part of this role, I am using my platform to advocate for scoliosis awareness, especially among young people. I’m passionate about breaking down misconceptions around spinal fusion, connecting with others who share this journey, and showing that it’s possible to live—and move—fully and freely after surgery.

Scoliosis has undeniably shaped my life—but not by limiting it. Instead, it has taught me how to move with purpose, advocate with strength, and live with gratitude.