𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐧 — we’ve seen signs with this message for the past 7 years at National Scoliosis Center as two kids have worn back braces.
I remember getting the first diagnosis and being traumatized by the idea of sending my son off to high school with a back brace. Where would he keep it during PE? Would kids make fun of him?
I searched for alternatives, but he was the practical one who said, “Mom, I saw the X-ray. I just need a brace.”
Well, then.
So, I searched for brace options and knew that I wanted the Rigo Cheneau brace for its custom fit, CAD/CAM technology, and front closure. My research led us to National Scoliosis Center.
The orthotist is one of those people you never want to have to see, but we were grateful for the professionalism and encouragement we received at National Scoliosis Center. My son wore his brace consistently, without complaint, even though he could hardly tie his shoes. And then a few years later his sister got the diagnosis at age 12. He was so disappointed for her, as he didn’t want her to have to go through that pain, but she was a trooper, too. Worried some about what to wear with a brace and what middle schoolers would say, but no complaints. I was the one who worried and lost sleep over it.
They truly didn’t even see wearing a back brace as a challenge. It was just something they had to do. I learned from my kids yet again that you just do what you have to do. Take the hand you’re dealt. Make the most of it. I also learned that how you present something to your kids can make a huge difference in their attitude. In this case, I was the stressed one and they calmed me, but many other times, I end up freaking them out with my reaction and presentation. I did all the research and presented it to them. They trusted Luke and National Scoliosis Center like I did. They simply accepted it.
I’m grateful for the lessons learned from the experience and impressed by my kids’ resilience. Now that we got the final clearance to be done with the back brace, we’re ready for the next challenge!