An article by Ann Thomas

I admit, I didn’t know a huge amount about scoliosis until recently. I’d heard of it, and I had a vague idea of what it was. But then suddenly, my niece was diagnosed with the condition on her 13th birthday in May last year. As an active teenager committed to sports and dance, this understandably hit her like a tonne of bricks.

Coincidentally, May 2024 was also the month I entered the Galaxy UK Pageant as ‘Ms Cheshire Galaxy’—a prestigious national pageant where the winner will represent the UK in America and compete for the international title. As part of the build-up to the competition, it is customary to use your platform to raise awareness of causes close to your heart. Because of this, I chose Scoliosis Support & Research as my charity, in honour of my niece. To support this cause, I have been taking on physically challenging events such as the Tough Mudder 10k and walking 100 miles (Step For Scoliosis) to raise funds and represent the charity.

I would also like to introduce you to a fellow pageant girl and former ‘Miss Teen Great Britain 2023’, Lottie Stephens. After constantly complaining about back pain, Lottie was diagnosed with scoliosis at just 10 years old. Over the past decade, she has set an incredible example of how to overcome obstacles and mental battles to achieve your dreams.

From her perspective, her main concern as a young person growing up with the condition was looking ‘bigger’ than everyone else due to how scoliosis changes the body’s shape. But she was determined to have the most positive outlook possible, mustered up her inner strength, and joined the world of pageantry. She used her platform to be a confident role model for young girls with scoliosis, knowing this was something she would have benefited from during her teenage years.

Scoliosis has not restricted her appetite for adventure either. She has taken part in the ‘New Year’s Day Dip’ and the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’, raising just shy of £1,000.

Lottie is a huge inspiration in the world of pageantry. A successful and talented makeup artist and an avid campaigner for scoliosis awareness, she continues her pageantry journey as the current ‘Miss Yorkshire Coast International’.

Representing Scoliosis Support & Research has been nothing short of heart-warming, opening my eyes to the diversity of girls, boys, women, and men living with this condition. There are, of course, different severities, but my aim is to help people understand the courage of those with scoliosis. And let’s not forget the vital role this charity plays in fundraising to support those in need.

On a positive note, my niece received her body brace last week and is slowly getting to grips with it. We all hope the severity of her curve doesn’t worsen too much, but she understands this is just the beginning of her journey. She is determined to face each challenge head-on with the best possible mindset. We’re all so proud of her and how she has taken everything in her stride so far.

So, here’s to all the people with a beautiful ‘flaw’ that tells a story of strength and courage every single day. You are amazing! And with continued support from each other, you can achieve incredible things.

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Instagram Tags:

Ann Thomas – @ms_cheshire_galaxy

Lottie Stephens – @lottieemilystephens

Pageants – @ukgalaxypageants @missteengreatbritain @missinternationaluk