From Spinal Fusion to Aerial Performing Extraordinaire

Image courtesy of Lauren D. Cress Photography.

Hello, my name is Ollie, though many know me as Mr. Missy, the 2025/26 Mx. Portland Gay Pride. I am a 31-year-old professional aerialist and performer living in Portland, Oregon, originally from Eugene, Oregon, and this is my Shriners Children’s story.

At the age of 15, I underwent spinal fusion surgery from T5–L1 at Shriners Children’s following a diagnosis of scoliosis. My journey with Shriners Children’s began when I was just 14 years old. I had grown up around horses, working tirelessly to support my passion for riding. I wasn’t involved in school sports, so I never received the standard physical exams offered to athletes. It wasn’t until I began experiencing persistent back pain while working with my horse that my mother and I sought medical answers.

The diagnosis was daunting: a 42-degree spinal curve that was too advanced for bracing, but not yet urgent enough for surgery. Within six months, however, my curve progressed to nearly 50 degrees, and surgery became inevitable. Unfortunately, my insurance would not cover the procedure, and my family’s financial situation couldn’t yield to the cost. Just when it felt like hope was slipping away, a kind neighbor, who happened to be a Shriner, connected us to the Shriners hospital in Portland, Oregon, in which I was later approved for surgery, and my family didn’t have to worry about the cost.

From the moment I entered their care, I felt safe and supported. Facing such a major surgery at a young age could have been overwhelming, yet the incredible staff eased every worry. By the time I underwent surgery in April 2010, my curve had reached nearly 60 degrees. My surgeon, Dr. Krajbich – one of the most respected specialists in the field – offered me the choice to learn the surgical details or leave those conversations to my parents. Having that autonomy at such a young age made me feel seen and respected, even as I chose not to know the specifics.

Because of Shriners Children’s, I get to live my dream. Today, as a performer with an alter-abled body, I strive to be a beacon for others. Limitations do not define us. They guide us toward our own path. And that path … is beautiful. My story is proof that with support, resilience and belief in oneself, anything is possible. I stand here as a proud performer, a proud advocate, and a proud patient of Shriners Children’s – forever grateful for the gift they gave me: a life filled with possibility, passion and purpose. Thank you.