Patient Stories

Hello, my name is Kenza. I am 23 years old, and I graduated with a master’s degree in accounting and auditing. I aspire to continue my studies and obtain a PhD. My journey began on December 26, 2016, when I first discovered that I had scoliosis with curves measuring 40 and 37 degrees. This discovery came after many unsuccessful trips and misdiagnoses in my home country, Algeria. After numerous trips and consultations in Tunisia, a doctor there confirmed that surgery was the only solution. However, I learned from the internet about another option, the brace or corset, which was not available in my country. Despite numerous attempts to obtain a brace, I concluded that there was no information or treatment for scoliosis in Algeria. This realization left me feeling increasingly frustrated and hopeless, as I grappled with the lack of support and resources available for my condition. Determined to find a solution, I began considering treatment abroad. Through social media, I connected with two incredible women from Ireland, Karen W. and Emma S., who shared their experiences with a renowned surgeon in Turkey who had treated their daughters. Their stories were a beacon of hope. Inspired by their support and the success of their daughters treatments, I resolved to pursue treatment in Turkey.

In 2021, having completed my high school education and entered my second year at university, we began preparing for the journey. Unfortunately, our plans were disrupted due to the COVID- 19 pandemic. The day after our scheduled departure, global airports closed. This sudden change was a devastating blow, and I spent a year and a half in a difficult psychological state, dealing with the uncertainty of the pandemic and the deterioration of my condition. This period taught me resilience and patience, and I learned to find small moments of joy amidst the chaos.

On July 25, 2021, I finally managed to travel to Turkey. The journey was a mix of excitement and anxiety as I ventured into the unknown, yet closer to the possibility of healing. During my appointment, the surgeon discovered rare conditions in my spinal cord, including diastematomyelia type 1, which required surgery before addressing the scoliosis. On August 6, 2021, I underwent diastematomyelia surgery, which lasted six and a half hours. I had not anticipated that I would be unable to walk for five days, as instructed by the surgeon. This period was one of the most challenging times in my life. I had to lie on my stomach during these days, which was particularly distressing given the blood loss during the surgery. The physical discomfort was immense, but the psychological strain was even greater. Despite the excellent care from the nurses, trying to eat and deal with the aftermath of the surgery while lying on my stomach was very difficult. On the sixth day, the surgeon allowed me to walk and leave the hospital. Unfortunately, I suffered from severe dizziness due to the prolonged anesthesia.

On August 19, 2021, came the second major surgery—the spinal fusion surgery. I was a mix of emotions: excited, scared, and tearful as I said goodbye to my old back. The surgery lasted 12 hours, during which the surgeons fixed my spine with 26 screws and titanium rods, and three of my ribs were cut to correct the scoliosis as much as possible. The day after the surgery, I was able to walk, which was a positive sign. However, I experienced vomiting, loss of appetite, and severe pain from the fluid drainage that lasted four days. Despite these challenges, the scoliosis surgery was somewhat easier because I could sleep on my back. On the sixth day after the surgery, I had a shower with the help of a nurse and had new EOS images taken. I was discharged from the hospital, but the surgeon informed me that I would need to wear a brace for a year after surgery because the scoliosis was still present in the last two vertebrae. This news was disheartening, but I resolved to face it with the same determination that had brought me this far. Returning to the hotel, I managed my daily routines and small victories despite the pain and weakness.

Six days after the surgery and ten days after leaving the hospital, I went back for brace measurements. The process was grueling, but my desire to regain my health and life motivated me. After getting the brace, which was very painful and needed to be worn for 16 hours a day, I spent a month and a half in Turkey. Finally, I managed to get return tickets to Algeria on September 12 due to the lack of flights. With the support of my mother and sister, the recovery period at home was much easier than in the hotel. Their presence provided invaluable physical and emotional support. Two months after the surgeries, in October, I resumed my studies for my final year and obtained a bachelor’s degree in corporate finance despite the pain.

In 2022, less than a year after the surgeries, I graduated with excellent grades. In September 2022, during my annual check-up, I received wonderful news that I no longer needed the brace and could live my life as I wanted. This news was liberating, and I was thrilled to achieve my dream. I returned to Algeria and joined the master’s program. Just a month ago, I obtained my master’s degree in accounting and auditing with excellent grades, and I still aspire to pursue a PhD. The journey was not easy or comfortable. It was incredibly difficult, not only because of the illness and self-acceptance but also due to the lack of treatment and diagnosis in my country, coupled with financial constraints. In Turkey, we paid for everything ourselves—surgeries, treatment, hotels, food, and travel expenses. This financial burden added another layer of stress but also taught me the value of sacrifice and the importance of prioritizing health and well- being. Although I occasionally suffer from cramps and pain, I am grateful for the entire journey. The pain reminds me of my strength and resilience. I embrace every aspect of my journey and the lessons learned. I view this experience as preparation for overcoming future difficulties in life. It has transformed me into a stronger, more mature individual who sees challenges as opportunities for growth. To all the warriors out there: never give up. You are stronger than any obstacle you face. Embrace your journey and remember that you are capable of more than you know.

With love and hope,
Kenza