“I love butterflies, so both pictures have butterflies with curves – just like me,” she said. “And the messages of Crooked Wings Still Learn to Fly and Curved but Not Broken are supposed to help encourage other patients going through similar experiences as me.”
In the United States, 2% to 5% of children develop scoliosis, where the spine curves to make a C shape or S shape, rather than growing in a straight line. For Madison, her curve was detected during a routine scoliosis screening when she was 12. Shortly thereafter, she became a new patient of Shriners Children’s Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS) in Tampa.
“They are so amazing and caring here,” said Aimee, Madison’s mother. “You feel like family from the moment you walk in. Plus, you’re never rushed! They listen to concerns from parent and child.”
Since becoming a patient, Madison has received two custom scoliosis jackets to help slow the onset and progression of her curve. Her current care plan requires her to wear her brace 18 hours a day, so the team in POPS works closely with her to ensure the best overall look, feel, fit and function of her device.
I'll admit, I was nervous about wearing the brace. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to do everyday things – but I was wrong.
From 4-H to Girl Scouts, the soon-to-be seventh-grader keeps a busy schedule. After nine years in the program, she has earned the title of cadet, serves on the Girl Scout committee and is a camp counselor in training. She also loves all things arts and crafts, especially sewing and resin. Her show cow’s name is Pickles, she has a dog named Toby, and she also has three cats: Juliet, Faith and Hope. When she’s not busy juggling her hobbies, she’s an all-star babysitter and a proud big sister.
“We are always on the go, trying something new or traveling to new places,” Aimee said. “Truly, never a dull moment! So, there is so much comfort in knowing we have a community here to help support her.”
Shriners Children’s Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services, (POPS) designs, fits and manufactures orthotics and prosthetics for children, from infants to teenagers to young adults. These devices – including shoe inserts, braces and artificial limbs (both arms and legs) – provide the support children need to meet their full potential and pursue their dreams. For more information on POPS and how to schedule an appointment, please call 800-237-5055 today.
Madison proudly poses with her cow, Pickles, during a recent 4-H competition.
Madison sells Girl Scout cookies outside a local grocery store.
Madison loves crafting, independently at home and alongside her Girl Scout troupe members.
Behind-the-scenes shots of Madison’s latest scoliosis brace fitting at POPS in Tampa.
Madison stands outside the Florida POPS facility after her appointment.
