Scoliosis Advocates
Programme
At McGowan Physio, our Scoliosis Advocates are inspirational young people who have lived through scoliosis treatment during their teenage years. They’ve faced their challenges, with courage and are now using their experiences to help others on a similar path.
Our advocates work closely with our clinic to:
Help us improve
the services we offer
Support others starting or continuing
their scoliosis journey
Offer honest insights
through lived experience
They are role models, supporters and shining examples of what’s possible — and we’re incredibly proud of them.
This page is dedicated to our incredible teen advocates who give their time,energy and hearts to support others.
They are our heroes!
Meet Our Teen Advocates
Ciara, 16
When were you diagnosed with scoliosis?
“I was 7 years old when I was diagnosed. My mam was changing my clothes and noticed my right shoulder didn't look right.”
What treatment did you undergone for your scoliosis?
“I had a body cast on in March before my 8th birthday. Then I progressed to have two Boston braces, which I hate having to put on lying face down. Then I had two Rigo Chenaux braces which was so much better with the front opening. I've done loads of physio with Niamh.”
Why did you want to become a Scoliosis Advocate?
“I remember how frightening it was being diagnosed and always worrying about the clinic visits in Crumlin and then when I was listed for surgery being terrified at the prospect but looking back there was no need. I'd love to just have younger kids and their parents to realise that it's not all bad and that there is no need to waste precious time worrying about it because it will all work out in the end!”
Something I thought I couldn’t do because of my scoliosis — but I absolutely can:
“I'm still playing sports and I can now do "pushups" 😉 Since my surgery I have taken back up GAA and I enjoy it so much.”
Hannah, 17
When were you diagnosed with scoliosis?
“I was 12 years old.”
What treatment did you undergone for your scoliosis?
“Spinal surgery, 14 fusions, 2 rods and 23 screws. A lot of physio and reformer Pilates.”
Why did you want to become a Scoliosis Advocate?
“In my experience I didn't speak to anyone with Scoliosis before surgery, I feel it would be helpful to connect with someone who understands what you are going through and that there is hope you will get back to your normal life. I want to show the importance of doing your physio as I believe Niamh and my physio programme got me back to my level of sport in hockey, golf and dancing.”
Something I thought I couldn’t do because of my scoliosis — but I absolutely can:
“I had a fear I wouldn't get back to a high level of hockey, golf and dance. I am currently the Junior Golf Captain in Castleknock Golf Club, I have played school and club hockey at high levels, and have performed in many musicals since my operation. I really hoped I would be able to go on rollercoasters as I had not been on one before my operation and recently got to go on one which I loved.”
Gavin, 17
When were you diagnosed with scoliosis?
“My GP noticed a pelvic tilt in May 2016 (I was 8yo) and referred me for a check-up for scoliosis.”
What treatment did you undergone for your scoliosis?
“I wore a back brace from March 2018 and then from November 2018 I practiced the Schroth method of physiotherapy.”
Why did you want to become a Scoliosis Advocate?
“I remember that at the start of the bracing and physio it was a bit daunting and it felt like it would never finish but it really wasn't too bad and it went by fast. It would be nice for people just starting the treatments to know this if they're having similar feelings.”
Something I thought I couldn’t do because of my scoliosis — but I absolutely can:
“Play rugby in 1st year in School, Play Basketball.”
Emily, 17
When were you diagnosed with scoliosis?
“I was 13 when I was diagnosed with scoliosis.”
What treatment did you undergone for your scoliosis?
“I have had spinal fusion surgery and did a lot of physiotherapy both before and after surgery.”
Why did you want to become a Scoliosis Advocate?
“I wanted to become a scoliosis advocate to offer support and advice, share my own story and experiences if it can help others and show people what life can be like after diagnosis!”
Something I thought I couldn’t do because of my scoliosis — but I absolutely can:
“I didn't think I would be able to perform on stage with such confidence but if anything, my diagnosis has allowed me to enjoy it even more!”
Ella, 22
When were you diagnosed with scoliosis?
“I was around 15/16 years old back in 2019 when I found out.”
What treatment did you undergone for your scoliosis?
“I have not undergone any treatment other than physio.”
Why did you want to become a Scoliosis Advocate?
“I think becoming an advocate would be an amazing opportunity, as I would be able to help raise awareness and support others by sharing my experience, hopefully helping them navigate their diagnosis, and to give them a laugh also!! 🙂 ”
Something I thought I couldn’t do because of my scoliosis — but I absolutely can:
“I never thought I would be able to lift heavy weights for example, but with the proper help and support nothing is impossible. I have a home gym now I've built myself where I can focus on growing stronger every day!!”
Aoife, 17
When were you diagnosed with scoliosis?
“I was diagnosed in 2020 when I visited my GP after complaining about back pain to my physio. My GP referred me to Pat Kiely who I seen in January 2021.”
What treatment did you undergone for your scoliosis?
“Under the Scoliosis Academy I did Schroth physio with Niamh. This helped with the pain in my back.
I had surgery in August of 2021. The physio I did with Niamh greatly helped with my recovery.”
Why did you want to become a Scoliosis Advocate?
“I wanted to offer help to others in their scoliosis journey. Since my spinal fusion, I have since had additional surgeries to my knee but Niamh has helped me throughout my journey.”
Something I thought I couldn’t do because of my scoliosis — but I absolutely can:
“I have discovered that I am able to ride rollercoasters which was something that I asked my surgeon about before and after surgery.”
Want to Talk to an Advocate?
You can reach out through McGowan Physio’s contact page and we’ll connect you. Sometimes this will be by connecting you to the advocates via their parent or other times to meet up in our clinic as a safe space.
Resources for Teens & Families
We know that finding out you or your child has scoliosis can bring up a lot of questions — and sometimes, worries. You're not alone.
Whether you’re at the beginning, in the middle, or on the other side of your scoliosis journey — there’s a whole community here to support you.
Our Advocates are proof that life doesn’t stop with scoliosis. It grows with it.
Whether you're looking for practical tips, honest stories from others, or guidance on treatment and recovery — we’ve got you covered.
Currently we offer group classes to teenagers with scoliosis. They can take part in the Physio Scoliosis Specific Exercise group or the strength group depending on their goals. We also hope to continue to run our summer mini scoli camp. Stay tuned to find out more and always we are open to suggestion should there be anything else that you wish we could offer.