After a diagnosis of scoliosis a few months ago and learning she would need to wear a back brace, Chattanooga-resident Kaitlyn McAfee felt as if she were the only girl dealing with being scared and embarrassed by a scoliosis diagnosis. When she discovered an online peer-driven support group called Curvy Girls Scoliosis and realized they did not have a Tennessee chapter, she decided to start the first group in her home state.
Scoliosis is the lateral bending and twisting of the spine that, when progressed, causes body deformities and compromises internal organs. It affects seven million people in the United States, with diagnosis most commonly occurring in pre-adolescence. The disease shows progression ten times more frequently in girls than boys. Curvy Girls groups provide peer-to-peer and family-to-family support and information.
McAfee, leader of Tennessee Curvy Girls Support Group, and her mom Jennifer recently returned from the first Curvy Girls international convention in Long Island, N.Y. Kaitlyn was one of over 150 attendees from over 23 States and Canada. She will be facilitating monthly meetings of girls affected by scoliosis. The peer to peer meetings allow girls to network and discuss topics with which they are dealing, including the physical rigors and reality of wearing a brace several hours a day as well as practical questions about sports, exercise and even fashion.
“The convention gave me a chance to meet Curvy Girls from around the country. I learned skills for running an effective group. It was overwhelming to meet many girls who are going through the same thing. Now I know I’m not alone on my scoliosis journey.”
Founded in 2006 by then-13 year-old New York resident Leah Stoltz, Curvy Girls has successfully engaged hundreds of young girls and families in mutual support and advocacy activities through the experience of scoliosis.
The convention included national speakers on innovations in the treatment and rehabilitation of scoliosis such as bracing, physical therapy approaches and surgical techniques. Kaitlyn’s plan is to reach out to other Tennessee girls to empower them to feel good about themselves. She’s planning a 5K next June to raise money for scoliosis awareness.
To find out more information about Curvy Girls of Tennessee, contact curvygirlschattanooga@gmail.com.