I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 9 years old. I used to wear a brace at night and started swimming to try to stop the curve from getting worse. I had a big growth spurt when I was 12, but it made my curve much worse and I had to have spinal fusion surgery. I am a swimmer, and I was training with my team the Manhattan Makos. I was scared that I wouldn't be able to swim after the surgery. Dr. Widmann performed my surgery and made it possible for me to continue to swim competitively. I am grateful to Dr. Widmann and the wonderful staff at HSS for what they have done for me.