Braelee Balances Beams and Back Braces

Ten-year-old Braelee from the Bay Area is embracing her scoliosis diagnosis and treatment.

She is a competitive gymnast, a young artist and an enthusiastic student of science and math. She also happens to be an aunt to three nieces and a patient with scoliosis being treated at Shriners Children’s Texas.

Braelee first began experiencing back pain two years ago during a family trip to the beach in Florida. Her mom, Jamie, noticed something unusual. When Jamie looked closely, she saw a visible curve in Braelee’s spine. Just months earlier, Braelee had passed her school physical and had a regular checkup with her doctor. Her family was surprised by how quickly the curve had developed.

When they returned home, her parents took her to the doctor, who ordered X-rays and officially diagnosed her with scoliosis. From there, she was referred to an orthopedic specialist. Around that same time, her father lost his job and the family’s insurance coverage ended, which made treatment more difficult. That’s when their doctor recommended Shriners Children’s Texas. The family connected with the care team, and Braelee had her first appointment soon after.

“This is our second time here, and we love it,” Jamie said. “Everyone is so kind. They explain things clearly. It is efficient and organized, and you feel taken care of right away.”

At Shriners Children’s Texas, Braelee sees William A. Phillips, M.D. He is one of the hospital’s pediatric orthopedic surgeons and has been treating children with scoliosis for decades. Braelee also visits the Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS) team. At her most recent appointment, Braelee was fitted for a new custom back brace made by the team at Shriners Children’s Texas. She currently wears a brace for 18 hours each day, and it has helped stop the progression of her spinal curve. This new brace is designed to provide the same support, and Braelee will return every four months for follow-up care.