Above the curve

Abstract

Scoliosis is a condition defined by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. It affects 2-3% of the population, and I was one of them. I was diagnosed when I was 12, and had to wear a back brace. Then when I was 17, I had spinal fusion surgery. Growing up with scoliosis, it was difficult to not see myself as different from other people. I didn’t know anyone that understood my feelings, so I hid them with a smile. Above the Curve is space for scoliosis patients to document their emotions surrounding their condition, and the bodily changes that take place because of it. While it mostly affects adolescents, this is a resource for anyone with scoliosis. The prompts encourage all forms of creative expression, not just writing. All of the visuals in the journal are hand-drawn, creating a homemade, individualistic experience. This journal is not meant to be completed in any specific order, and readers should go back and change their responses over time. My project aims to help readers develop a healthy body image, and provide them with a feeling of community among other scoliosis patients.