Finally received answers

My health update: Scoliosis hasn't been the only health problem I've had to deal with. Presently, there are two major things that affect my daily life. For one thing, I have PCOS (a hormone imbalance that has affects on my physical and mental health). Today, I was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I've gone through years of medical tests and therapy to figure out what I have; but I've finally found a phycologist that has been able to give a solution to my problem. ( It took testing and therapy sessions to give a clinical diagnosis). I'm relieved to finally have answers after years of searching. Now I can begin phase two- I can work towards gaining coping skills and feeling better. Throughout my whole life, it's been a battle against either a physical illness or mental illness, but I finally feel like a burden has been lifted. Now I know I can get better and treat this specific diagnosis. My advice to you all: never give up, keep seeking answers, and eventually they will be given to you.

 

(My graduation picture)

5 Year Post Op

November 28th 2016 will mark five years since my surgery. Where did the time go? Overall my back has been feeling great. I occasionally have back pain, but usually it's due to other activities. Sometimes my lower back hurts where my spine wasn't fused, but it doesn't happen often, so it's nothing of concern. I've have no limits because of my scoliosis. Ive been able to do all the activities I enjoy; including all forms of physical fitness and weight training. This year I'm doing Firefighting as my co-op education placement, and it's an option of a career I'd like to pursue. Scoliosis isn't holding me back! For those who may have fear of scoliosis surgery, remember that the outcome is worth it.

 

Back Pains

I haven't experienced much back pain these past couple years since my surgery, but lately I've had a lot of pain. I felt aching and stiff pains. The reason I feel this has come about is because I've been going to the gym. Working out and doing strength training is very benefical, but my problem is I don't take time to stretch as a cool down post - workout. Especially for someone with scoliosis or issues with their back, you MUST stretch after exercise. I went for a massage today since my back was so sore and my muscles were very knotted. I think that it would also be wise just to do stretches regularly just because I could ease some tention and pain. I know pain is a big issue for scoliosis, but working your muscles, stretching and relaxing is all benefical in aiding pain management. Also life a healthy lifestyle, eat the right foods and follow healthy habits. There's even certain foods, herbs and spices that are proven to aid with inflamation, such as tumeric. Do your research and discover ways to aid your pain that doesn't always have to involve taking a pain relieving pill.

4 year post - op !!

It's been 4 years! Crazy! Time certainly fly's by. Scoliosis hasn't affected my daily life for the past couple years, it's crazy thinking I went through such a journey a few years ago. It was truly a life changing experience, but it's only made me stronger. I never would've thought things would be so ... normal. Pre - surgery I had worked myself up so much, but knowing how far I've come and how strong I stayed during my journey, it shows that anxiety of what's to come isn't always worth it. Yes, of course the first year post surgery had many challenges, but that year ended 3 years ago and I've changed so much and experienced so many different things since then! As regards to how scoliosis is effecting me currently, well, it isn't much. Sometimes I get back pain, but I wouldn't necessarily say it's due to my scoliosis, other factors added to that, as would happen to a person without serious back issues. Health wise, I'm doing OK. There are things I'm dealing with, but it's manageable and I'm working towards living a balanced, mindful and healthy life.

So what's new in my life?

I've been busy with school (grade 11) and work. I'm working at Tim Hortons and Freshii's, which keeps me busy! Ive been trying to live a healthy lifestyle and gain balance and mindfulness in my thoughts and emotions. I'm working hard towards my goals, even though it's not easy with the blocks in the road, I'm determined to accomplish my dreams.

Enjoying the little things in life ...

Tim Hortons life

Surrounding myself with wonderful association

reasons to smile

Whether is dealing with trials that arise in your scoliosis journey, or even any stumbling block in your life, the way we deal with these issues are key. As imperfect humans it's easy for us to have negative thoughts and doubt the outcome of things. We add so much extra anxiety to our lives than is needed. But speaking for myself, it's not that simple just to think of the bright side. I've let negative feelings, worrying and stress affect my life and decisions. What I realize now is that those types of feelings and mindset just make things worse and don't help to make the situation any better. We all need encouragement and advice to help us through trials. Simple little ideas can help distract us from what's going wrong in our lives and bring us even a glimmer of hope in times where we feel nothing is going right.

 Here are some suggestions of things I find effective when I'm feeling stressed or upset;

• 1. Enjoy a warm cup of your favourite tea. There's so many health benefits that come along with drinking tea, and some types even have a relaxing and calming effect in them.
• 2. Read a good book or some type of literature, preferably something upbeat and inspiring. Reading can help you take your mind off of your own situation and is a way to take a breather from reality.
• 3. Go for a walk. Take some time to get some fresh air. This will lift your spirits and it's a great way to add in some exercise to your day. Being healthy and active makes you feel happy and inspired.
• 4. Breath in and out. Spend a minute doing deep breathes in and out. Focus on your breathing and body. I find doing stretches is relaxing as well and looses up your muscles which provides a simple feeling of relief.
• 5. Spend time with friends. Whether it's going out with a group of friends, or simply talking with a close friend, being with positive associates upbuilds you. Going out and doing things keeps your mind off yourself and having fun will make you smile and laugh. Also, just being with one good friend and talking things through helps you feel relieved and that you have support. You can't make it through difficult times alone. Trust others and they'll give you support to keep on eduring through life.

Even though you may feel like you're in complete darkness, remember that things won't always be that way. In life we have storms, but then the sun will shine and a rainbow will appear. If you need a quick boost of encouragement, look back to old pictures of good memories. Remembering that you've had good days is proof that more of these times are just waiting to happen.
Here's some of the wonderful memories I've already experienced so far this summer: 

( spending time with friends and simply being able to relax,enjoy the sun and have some time to myself has made this a great start to summer so far )