Erica McLeod and WILLOW MONTGOMERY
- Mother and Daughter
When Erica was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 12, she was scared and unfamiliar with the condition. she had never heard of scoliosis before. after undergoing spinal fusion at the age of 13, she felt self-conscious, Embarrassed, and ashamed of her scoliosis scar. it took her years to Feel comfortable showing it. now, as a strong and resilient scoliosis warrior and proud mother of four children (two of whom also have scoliosis
”I began to feel empowered and strong and want to celebrate my scar because it's part of who I am."
When Erica was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 12, she was scared and unfamiliar with the condition. she had never heard of scoliosis before. after undergoing spinal fusion at the age of 13, she felt self-conscious, Embarrassed, and ashamed of her scoliosis scar. it took her years to Feel comfortable showing it. now, as a strong and resilient scoliosis warrior and proud mother of four children (two of whom also have scoliosis
”I began to feel empowered and strong and want to celebrate my scar because it's part of who I am."
To stay motivated and positive, she looks for the good within her world and understands that everything happens for a reason, even if we may not understand that reason at the time. Erica sees herself helping others by staying involved and active in the scoliosis community and continuing to educate herself on the condition. She advocates by sharing her story and experiences, as well as supporting others affected by scoliosis – including her own children!
“I am a Scoliosis Warrior mom x2, it’s truly a family affair! I am blessed to be able to guide and support them in their scoliosis journeys.”
Erica looks forward to seeing more primary care doctors deeply study and understand the various ways scoliosis can present itself, with hopes of reducing the misdiagnosis rates. Her hobbies include jigsaw puzzles, eating ice cream, spending time with loved ones, traveling, and watching reality TV. She also enjoys, now more than ever, taking the time to care for her scoliosis and body.
“Stay strong and know it gets better. You are brave and a fighter – You’ve got this!“
When Willow received her diagnosis at age 7, she didn't know what scoliosis was. Since then, she has become actively engaged in the young scoliosis community and quickly realized and embraced that she is not alone.
Willow strongly believes in the importance of education for those facing similar battles,
and that a supportive community can make a significant difference. Recognizing that
she is not alone in her scoliosis journey, Willow, along with her mom and brother, aims
to shed light on the shared experiences of many. As Willow courageously continues to
share her story, she also wants to inspire other young people with scoliosis to be
advocates and share their own experiences.
Willow has found friendship and laughter in the Higgy Bear community. She attended
Higgy Con in Michigan last summer, getting to meet kids her age living with scoliosis.
Willow also participates in Higgy Bears Scoliosis Kids Zooms, where she plays games,
joins activities, and laughs freely with friends.
Beyond her advocacy, Willow loves various hobbies, including drawing, playing basketball, running, and solving puzzles. While her initial days of wearing a brace presented her with new challenges, Willow has overcome them. And in moments where she may feel self-conscious, she remembers who she is:
“I am funny, smart, shy, strong, and brave.”