Patient Stories

My name is Ella Glassman.  I am a 13 year old girl from Davie, Florida. I am a friend, a daughter, a sister and a Girl Scout. I have many accomplishments I am proud of including being recognized as one of 50 Kids of Character in my county, serving as President of my elementary school and participating in over 15 community service projects that I helped organize. I love music, fashion, spending time with friends, going to sleep away camp and cooking . And, I have scoliosis.

An essential lesson I have had to learn in my life is to never allow yourself to feel a victim and give up on your goals just because a new obstacle comes your way.  I have been keenly aware of the importance of the desire to keep going and not give up as I have dealt with scoliosis.  When I was diagnosed with scoliosis, at age 11, I was completely shocked.  I found out I would have to wear an uncomfortable, hard plastic brace 16 hours every day and will not know for a few years if I will need major back surgery.  It would have been easy to give up and say I’m not going to wear the brace but instead I have a plan to follow and I stick to it. I also try to focus on the plenty I have in my life, rather than what is missing in my health.

I have always been passionate about giving back to my community and supporting those in need. I organized an event called “Ella’s Mitzvah Mini Golf Tournament” this past November to benefit Setting Scoliosis Straight. I was able to collect raffle donations from over 25 local businesses and sold over 150 raffle tickets.  In addition, I organized a fun night out for over 70 guests who came out to play mini golf, enjoy shaved ice treats and have fun! It meant so much to me to raise money for an organization as wonderful as Setting Scoliosis Straight. This event have raised over 1 thousand dollars!

As a Scoliosis Ambassador for this charity, I hope to help others who are diagnosed with the same condition.  I want those who are just now being diagnosed to know that not every day is easy but there is always a way to get through it.  When it feels overwhelming, I play with my dog or watch a good movie and I eventually feel better.  At first you may be embarrassed to tell other people about your scoliosis, but you will learn that there is nothing embarrassing about a serious medical condition. Those who care about you will not tease you or judge you, rather they will support and encourage you.  Now, for me and my friends, putting on my brace is no different than putting on my shoes.

Sincerely,
Ella Glassman