Signatures
20 May 10 | kim hemmings
Why have examinations for scoliosis ceased in schools since the 1960s Why is there no literature available in doctors surgeries
15 May 10 | Grahame David Weston
My wife has this condition and has had it from an early age, fortunately she she does not have it so bad but even so most days she suffers with real back ache and I believe if this kind of treatment was available when she was young she wouldnt be suffering now. Also my aunty suffers with this condition terribly and can not even stand straight. I am fully for this idea of testing children at school age and believe a minute of testing a child can take away a life time of agony away.
03 May 10 | Deborah Autry
Children deserve good health and a great childhood. I teach multihandicapped students in the USA.
30 Apr 10 | Leah Manning
I myself suffer from mild scoliosis and therefore am passionate about the need for testing.For something that takes such a short time and can save a lifetime of pain and suffering.
26 Apr 10 | tracy fitzwalter
My daughter has a curve of over one hundred and twenty degrees the largest the surgeon has ever seen. If we had screening in school we may have been able to get the help we need much sooner we waited almost a year to see the consultant on the NHS.
24 Apr 10 | Tabecca Peachman
My husband has Scoliosis and it was never caught. He has suffered years of pain and still suffers everyday. There is no reason why schools should not be checking our children when it takes so little time and effort.
22 Apr 10 | Alessandra Clarke
20 Apr 10 | James Purves
I agree
25 May 09 | Rachel Johnson
19 May 09 | gillian sweeney
my daughter of 7 yrs has just been put into a brace for her scoliosis. i noticed she had an odd shaped back as a baby but the doctor put me down as neurotic thankfully last year a different dr believed me and here we are now. she is being very brave but it isnt easy for her.good luck with the petitionx
18 May 09 | judy perez
I was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 13 and have suffered back pain and posture issues. At age 39 now, I am very concerned about my posture and the pain as I get older.
02 May 09 | Ricky Bleakley
Any threat to a childs health and wellbeing should be taken seriously and needs to be acted on immediately.R Bleakley
01 May 09 | Sandra Knight
30 Apr 09 | Sarah Dunning
24 Apr 09 | Liz Bloxham
There is not enough awareness of this condition. When my daughter was diagnosed with scoliosis, surgery was the only option. I would like to see regular testing introduced.
23 Apr 09 | Louise Laurie
Sending.....
21 Apr 09 | Theresa McGee
17 Apr 09 | Tania Bogdanovic
Im 30 years of age and have it has taken me over 15 years to get a diagnosis, which is, kyphoscoliosis. If Id been tested at School I doubt I would be is so muc pain now.
16 Apr 09 | Emma Carey
My brothers partner has scoliosis and has just has her operation to straighten her spine at the age of 19. It is such a shame that it wasnt recognised earlier and she has had to put up with it for so long. As a mother, I would have no problem whatsoever for my two daughters to be tested in school. I would be grateful more than anything
15 Apr 09 | louise winwright
14 Apr 09 | Sue Moore
I have suffered with scoliosis from the age of 13, at that time surgery or bracing were not an option. I am now 49 and in pain constantly. Recently I was told surgery at my age would be very risky. It is so important that children get checked at a young age to prevent later complications and I wish you good luck in your campaign.
13 Apr 09 | Alina Capruciu
I have been suffering from double scoliosis since the 7th grade now I graduated university. Sometimes it is hard for me to even go to work 8 hoursday since my spine doesnt support anymore sitting down or standing up too many hours. It would be great for children to be tested for scoliosis and moreover to provide them the appropriate means of improving this health problem eg swimming pool physical activities appropriate diet. Good luck with this petition
12 Apr 09 | Tatiana MORESSONI
I have been diagnosed with scogliosis at 12, after a visit organised by my ballet teacher. I have the chance to be cured and to follow all the visits till I was 18. I do not have any major problem now that Im in my 30s because that early diagnosis.
10 Apr 09 | Roz Couch
I am all for screening at schools , mine was spotted by a mum at ballet classes when I was 12. I escaped an operation and thoroughly recommend treatment at Scoliosis SOS who practise the Katrina Schroth method of back exercises. Check out the website and go for a free assessment, centres in Ipswich and London. Kind regards Roz
06 Apr 09 | betsy bannan
My daughter was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was 15. She is 16 now and on the waiting list for surgery. For me its the guilt you feel as a parent because we never noticed it. It was noticed by our GP during a visit for another matter. I think tests should be done in schools as it may reduce the need for major surgery.
05 Apr 09 | Emily Campbell
It so crucial that all children learn heathly ways of life and body and learn to keep up with check ups and realize health is active not passive
04 Apr 09 | Janine Fry
03 Apr 09 | maggie KING
my stepsister has scoliosis. it was not caught in time, and though she has been wearing a brace, she now has to have the surgery next month. she is twelve years old, and will never be able to turn her spine properly. it is shameful that there are schools that dont do this simple test. were letting children down.
02 Apr 09 | Jennifer Howard
I feel this is a very important issue. It takes such a rediculously small amount of time to check for that it is a shame it isnt routinely screened for everywhere
02 Apr 09 | Emma Murray
Back problems can have a huge impact on lots of different aspects of your adult life and if diagnosis and treatment can be received early it could save years of suffering and medication which can only be a good thing surely I speak as an adult sufferer recently diagnosed at 34 years old.
01 Apr 09 | Ash Fraser
22 Mar 09 | Ellen Herion
I was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 26 after reporting back pain for years. It went undiagnosed when I was younger. I strongly encourage these testings.
20 Mar 09 | Jeannie Barber
Stand up straight Jeannie were the words of my mother as she was measuring me for some homemade holiday clothes. I was 9 and I replied that I was standing straight. I then felt her run her finger down the middle of my back and she went quiet. Soon afterwards, at the RNOH Stanmore, I was diagnosed with Scoliosis and my curve grew severe quickly leading to a spinal fusion with a Harrington rod at age 12. Bracing had not worked for me either. However, I want to tell Emma that I have had a very healthy life since, free from pain and my fused spine has not prevented me from enjoying all sorts of activities and I turn 50 this month. I was saddened to read of the pain being suffered by Gillian and others signing this petition because of nondiagnosis. Good luck with your campaign, Emma keep fit and be positive
19 Mar 09 | chelsea williams
We used to have scoliosis testing in the US, when I was only 8 or 9.
13 Mar 09 | Annette Leinich
I had scoliosis that went undetected, then a chiropractor left it untreated when it was finally detected, to the point where I needed surgery involving Harrington rods. I have back pain to this day, and am now disabled due to the tremendous 247 pain. Dont let this keep happening. All it takes is check ups, more importantly for girls at the age of 12. Please help. If there is anything more i can do, contact me.
13 Mar 09 | Corene Veitch
My daughter was diagnosed aged 14, and being a competative gymnast the news was devastating, but she is so positive, she trained harder and was determined not to be beaten by her condition. But her condition progressed rapidly, she wore a spinecor brace 20 hours a day, this helped ease her back pain and she even wore it for gymnastics training. However the curve worsened and she will now have corrective surgery on 25th March. She has always remained positive, even now, when facing surgery. Her surgery is not only corrective but is going to be life changing if returning to gymnastics proves impossible, she already has alternatives in mind.
13 Mar 09 | Marion Paillat
This issue is so important, so please take notice of our petition.
07 Mar 09 | John Maiolino
There is way too much harm and abuse to children in schools and they deserve to be treated with respect and to have any means necessary to keep their health well. I wish my best God Bless
07 Mar 09 | CLARE RAGSDALE
My condition was detected by the school nurse when I was around 4 years old. Prior to this my mother had mentioned to our local GP that she thought I was lopsided not standing straight. He checked me over but said there was nothing to worry about If it wasnt for the school nurse my condition may not have been found. Luckily I didnt have a more severe type of Scoliosis and I wasnt restricted in any way. But I was referred to specialist consultants and throughtout my childhood I was seen by a Neurosurgeon and bone specialist every year until I was 16 years old approx. I feel that I was lucky that these professional people detected, diagnosed and monitored my condition and that I have never had a problem and am healthy. I am now 35 years old and up until recently was still seen every 5 years by a specialist. I have a healthy 4 year old daughter that shows no signs of scoliosis but she has been seen by a paedriatric doctor just to make sure. I would be put at ease if I knew there was a school nurse visiting on a regular basis to pick up any problems. It would be so beneficial to other parents that are not aware of this condition too.
05 Mar 09 | hilary ragsdale
Hi Gillian, I truely support your petition a health visitor at the local nursery school spotted that our daughter, Clare now almost 36, had some problem and we were invited to see a specialist who explained what it was. We had never heard of it it was something new to us and noone in the family has it. I had told our GP that I thought Clare looked crooked and he was adamant that Clare in his words looked isometrical to me. Clare was about 3years old then and am I pleased that this health visitor spotted her in nursery school, I think she would have been around 4 by then, anyway, we visited the hospital for xrayschecks at 6 monthly intervals and fortunately no corrective operation had to be done. To look at Clare you would not know she had this problem and checks at the hospital continued until she was mid to late 20s. She had a daughter 4years ago and had a normal birth. I do think that by having the spinal test in school is, and was for us something that should be available to all children their parents, we have counted our blessings on many occasions if it had not been spotted who knows how Clare would have been. Fortunately we have never had any problems but things could have been so much worse. Wishing you every success with the petition,Hilary
05 Mar 09 | Emma HamiltonLlewellyn
My son Elliott has just been diagnosed with scoliosis at 14,so we dont know what, if anything, can be done for for him.Testing in schools is definately a great idea,well done Emma.
02 Mar 09 | Victoria Tilbury
I am 41 and have just found out I have scoliosos from a Spanish hospital, after a nasty fall while living there. It explains a lot, over the years I have had posture problems and have suffered very bad painful lower back pain and always being told to stand straight. I had never heard of this condition before so it was a shock, I will have my children tested, however it should be publicised more and testing should be mandatory.
28 Feb 09 | Rose Quayle
Here in the US growing up we were tested in schools and luckily my friends was caught in time for bracing. My husband british was not so lucky.
28 Feb 09 | ann sinnott
27 Feb 09 | Tracy Meldrum
My son is 15 yrs and facing painful surgery with a long recovery. School tersting would have prevented his curve getrting to the stage it has. It is a simple test. Please, please reintroduce the test. I would give anything to make my boy healthy and happy.
23 Feb 09 | Zaneta Graham
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22 Feb 09 | Grace Condello
I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 11 years of age. I wore a brace for 4 years. Eventually the curve in my spine improved. However, I suffered with chronic back pain. Doctors couldnt help me with my pain. It was many years later, that I started seeing a chiropractor, who encouraged me to practise pilates and regular exercise. My back pain lessened. Chronic back pain can be comletely debilitating. I know some who are not able to work due to chronic pain. Early screening for this common condition, especially for young girls, should be mandatory. It should be part of a rountine health check by doctors. It costs the health care system nothing.
18 Feb 09 | becky smith
My Daughter kimberly had surgery 2 years ago. Dr. found small curve at age 5. between years 10 and 12 she developed a 72 curve. She is walking well and very stright.
16 Feb 09 | Gena Lawson
13 Feb 09 | Ashley Snyder
I find it a terrible shame when we as a international culture think it is not fiscally feasible or a waste of resources to take care of children with simple tests to see if they have a problematic physical condition that can be easily treated if caught early. If it is not caught early than the child has to undergo an evasive surgery to correct it.
12 Feb 09 | Bethany Suggett
Im currently basing my ALevel English Language work on the topic of bringing Scoliosis screening tests back into Schools in the UK. I was diagnosed with Scoliosis nearly two years ago and have been monitored since. My condition is worsening and I will be having corrective surgery this summer. I definately feel that if I was checked and monitored in the early years of secondary school I could have avoided the operation and been given a back brace in order to correctly align my spine. I dont understand why the testing would be such a problem within schools as it only takes a short period of time to be carried out. It is unbelievable the amount of people who do actually have Scoliosis, it is only when I visit hospital and see different faces, I begin to realise how it is such a problem for young people. I wish everyone so much luck with their condition, thank you. x
11 Feb 09 | Rachel Heinze
10 Feb 09 | Stef Katsikis
08 Feb 09 | di Mattei
07 Feb 09 | Liz Schau
I was tested for Scoliosis in my school, at a young age, and indeed had a small curve in my spine. Early prevention is the best tool Its invaluable.
07 Feb 09 | Melissa Ferguson
I am not 41 years old. I was diagnosed with Scoliosis at the age of 18, when I was getting a physical to go into the U.S. Army. I was shocked. I knew that my posture wasnt the best, but never knew why, until then. I definitely support this. When I do gain weight, my spine gives me problems.
07 Feb 09 | KATHY MALIN
MY DAUGHTER ALSO WAS DIAGNOSED TOO LATE AND HAD TO GO THRU THE SURGERY 2 YEARS AGO. IT WAS A MAJOR DECISION IN OUR FAMILIES LIFE. WHEN TO HAVE THE SURGERY, WHO TO TRUST TO PERFORM THE SURGERY, AND HOW IT WAS GOING TO AFFECT HER FUTURE, ETC. SHE IS A VERY ENERGETIC AN ACTIVE GIRL, SO THIS IMPACTED HER ALOT. SHE WAS A REAL TROUPER AND HAS COME OUT AN EVEN STRONGER YOUNG LADY I BELIEVE. MAYBE IF SHE HAD BEEN TESTED EARLIER SHE WOULD NOT HAVE HAD TO HAVE SURGERY. ANYWAY, IF THEY TEST IN SCHOOLS EARLIER THEN MAYBE ANOTHER FAMILY WOULD NOT HAVE TO GO THRU THESE THINGS. MY DAUGHTER IS GOING STRONG NOW AND STILL LEADS AN ACTIVE LIFE. WE KNOW WE MADE THE RIGHT DECISION FOR HER AND ARE GLAD SHE IS DOING FINE NOW. THANKS
05 Feb 09 | Tamela Benton
I Found Out That I had SCOLILSIS in the Fourth grade.... It means so much to be teseted young
05 Feb 09 | marlene haigh
This was a standard practice when I went to school. What happened
05 Feb 09 | Jennifer Symms
good Luck Emma, i also suffer from scoliosis, it was diagnosed late and i will have to live with it for the rest of my life, a simple test sat school done by a professional is surely neccessary. Well Done and keep up the hard work.
02 Feb 09 | Jackie Stapleton
02 Feb 09 | Maria McBride
Good luck Emma I admire you for being so brave and for raising awareness about scoliosis.
01 Feb 09 | Terrie Barker
My sisterinlaws niece has severe scoliosis and she is only 14. She is due to have 3 operations in one shortly and will be off school for months. Please support this cause as she will be suffering enough over the next months and it could have been prevented or even treated if caught early enough. Thank you
31 Jan 09 | Teresa Marbut
I too have scoliosis that was not caught in school. I am now in my thirties, and because the scoliosis was not caught early enough, I also developed degenerative disc disease.Kids need to be checked, but they also have to be checked by someone that really knows what they are doing. I was checked several times in the US during elementary school, but it was never caught those who were looking were not competent. Make sure the school researchers are welleducated before they begin their checksKeep up the good work Emma
30 Jan 09 | JOHN WARD
My granddaughter has scoliosis, and I am very much aware, not only of how much suffering could be reduced by early diagnosis, but also of the potential savings to the NHS.
30 Jan 09 | Rebecca Ward
30 Jan 09 | Joanna Hills
Although my daughter has congenital scoliosis, I have been shocked about the lack of awareness of any type of scolioisis at her school although they have been very accommodating. Our neighbours daughter developed scoliosis in her early teens, which her mother picked up because she knew about my daughter. I am sure there must be numerous children out there with the condition remaining undiagnosed, and testing would not only pick these up, it would help to raise the general level of awareness.
25 Jan 09 | Ariel Koiman
25 Jan 09 | jacquie widdison
I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 15 and wore a plastic bracecorset for 1 year to stop it from getting worse. The discomfort and daily back pain has been with me as long as i can remember ,i am now 43. Buying clothes is a problem as I have hardly got a hip on one side. My mum noticed problems turning my trousers up when I was 15 and we discovered my problem purely by chance but unfortunately too late. It is such a simple check to do we should pay as much attention to childrens spines as we do to their teeth
23 Jan 09 | Amanda Medlock
I was tested when I was a child, I want my children to be tested too.
23 Jan 09 | Van Pinnix III
22 Jan 09 | Joanne Poole
My mother and myself both have a scoliosis, and the pain is sometimes unbearable. I have a 6 year old daughter who I am obviously concerned about...good luck Emma.
20 Jan 09 | Donna Camfield
My son was young when he was diagnosed. He didnt need any braces, but the curve remains. He is now 20 years old and is doing well. When he was in school in Maryland they didnt do the testing that was needed in school. The pediatrician noticed it. When we moved to Virginia we learned that they do the testing for it that takes only minutes. It should start a very early age. Early detection is necessary.
19 Jan 09 | Beryl Reese
To save many children from such pain and anguish, testing would be beneficial for them.
17 Jan 09 | lynn dundas
15 Jan 09 | Kristina Pinnix
I remember having this test done when I was in school. I think it is a good idea to continue the testing. It doesnt hurt and is quick.
13 Jan 09 | VIOLETTA RAMNARACE
i am disapointed to see how little physical health checks are carried out in schools these days. i believe making school nurses go was a big mistake, money should be save elswhere eg through reduction of spendings on military.
13 Jan 09 | Laura HeathcoteSmith
I was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 12. It was only because my gymnastic teacher kept telling me to stand straight and it being a problem to do so that i was referred to a speacialist. I am now 22 and have learnt to cope with the condition, but i think all children should be screened in school.
13 Jan 09 | Jo Vohland
If testing were available in schools my brothers scoliosis condition could have been treated from an early age saving him ongoing pain and migranes.
12 Jan 09 | Jeffrey Bilkanich
12 Jan 09 | Susan Wressell
12 Jan 09 | Ellen Roper
12 Jan 09 | lorraine nurdin
12 Jan 09 | Elaine Gadomski
11 Jan 09 | Annabelle Terry
11 Jan 09 | Angela Sillifant
11 Jan 09 | Carole Hall
All children must be given the best possible chance of an active life a routine test for this condition could allow this for more of them.
11 Jan 09 | claire beaulieu
11 Jan 09 | Sue Moorhouse
I have signed this petiton because my granddaughter has a muscle problem and after 3 years of tests and more we still dont know whats wrong.
11 Jan 09 | Jemma Heigold
My childrens father has severe scoliosis, they didnt catch it in time not he cant bend his back or tie his shoes. Both my children are now monitored for it but only because we found out they could be from a friend. Please let everyone know about this. Thank you
10 Jan 09 | Sarah LarkinSmith
I know what its like to find out about Scoliosis late on. I was 12yrs old and had a 70degree curve, i had major surgery, which improved it but now after having children I have more problems as the spine below the rod is crumbling, I am facing more surgery, and am constantly looking at my twins spines worrying
08 Jan 09 | scott sapp
08 Jan 09 | Cally Lawrie
I am a school nurse and have 2 puils in this school with scoliosis, both was not caught early enough and therefore suffer for this. About time something was done to prevent all the pain and operations these children have to go through.
07 Jan 09 | Emma Grayston
Hi Emma, Well done to you for raising awarness to this cause.For 8 years I was back and forth to the doctors with my son Tian,I couldnt work out whet was wrong with him,his hips seemed twisted and he didnt run the same way all the other children did.Finally a year ago Tian was diagnosed ,but unfortunately it is too late for a brace to do much for him.He is now booked in for his operation this coming June at Alderhey in liverpool,he has a fantastic surgeon,but our main problem is we now live in the united arab emirates,this means three months back in England away from his sister and Dad,not to mention the pain my son has to go through.I wish you the very best of luck with your petition. xxxemmaxxx
07 Jan 09 | Tessa Stirling
07 Jan 09 | Shaunagh Chapman
I had scoliosis as a result of polio aged 4. The scoliosis was not detected until I was nearly 12. Surgery followed and I have lived with the deformity all my life. The self consciousness never leaves you. I am now overweight but too embarrassed to go to a gym. I also now have limited lung capacity due to space restriction which doesnt help and breathlessness on exercise scares me into inaction. This should never have happened.
06 Jan 09 | Nicola Clowson
Having scoliosis for 18yrs I support all efforts of awareness and to be tested early may avoid the pain that comes with scoliosis. Im all for testing in Schools.
06 Jan 09 | Jane Whitehead
my grandmother suffered with a severe scoliosis all her adult life. She suffered amongst other thingscruel namecalling and fingerpointing in the street the inability to get clothes to fit over the hump in her back and therefore had to resort to making her own clothes alot of pain and difficulty in getting comfortable at night particularly in later life her breathing was badly affected by her ribcage pushing in on her lungs and other organs as her spine continued to twist. She ended up with an oxygen cylinder as she had bad emphesema. She had never smoked. She was incredibly brave and worked hard all her life and NEVER complained about her condition. Nobody should have to put up with it as if caught early it is completely treatable.
06 Jan 09 | julie marshall
This should be added into schools, children should not suffer in this day and age..
06 Jan 09 | Serena Moloney
My husband suffered with this condition as a child and has suffered with severe back pain all his life. My 9 year old son has slight curvature of the spine, which luckily was picked up by my osteopath who is now seeing him regularly.
06 Jan 09 | Kerry Ellis
Checking for scoliosis should be as important as eyesight and dental tests.
05 Jan 09 | Cindi Smith
I was diagnosed with mild scoliosis at about 14. It is very important to have testing in schools. I am now 51 and have been pregnant 7 times and my curve is worse than when I was younger and before so many children. I do have back pain and my clothes dont fit like everyone else. However, I remain positive and know that if I take care of myself better and exercise it will help. Two of my 7 children have a mild form also. It is embarrasing, but I try to remember that beauty comes from within Thank you for doing this and your support Cindi Smith Richmond, Virginia
28 Dec 08 | Jessica Porter
17 Dec 08 | Stacey Dagger
16 Dec 08 | Tenniel Robertson
I believe that this a very important test, that is easy to do By doing this children could avoid alot of pain
16 Dec 08 | Alison Mount
Help prevent pain later in life get tested early.
15 Dec 08 | Jeanne Stevens
I believe it needs to be added in the school because I have Scolioisis when I was 7 and I was fitted for wearing a brace for many years.
14 Dec 08 | Heather Woolley
13 Dec 08 | Amanda Lawrence
I read a book about a girl with this condition while in grade school. Early diagnosis makes all the difference.
13 Dec 08 | Jan Gillison
We should listen to anything that Gillian Mc Keith recommends.The spine is a very important part of the body in which injury of it can give us penalties in health later in life.
10 Dec 08 | Shirl DiGugno
A dear and old friend of mine who I went to school with has scoliosis. When she was 13 she had a metal rod surgically implanted in her back that goes the length of her spine. Its helped her over the years and preventing the condition from worsening but she has and always will have problems with this. She s limited to do what she can do physically ex. only lifting certain light things, cant do sports of any kind. I send loving and positive thoughts for this lovely young lady Emma and her family .
05 Dec 08 | Caitlin Farber
I personaly was diagnosed with scliosis through my school. I am very glad I found out early. If it was not for my school doing rotine checks, I feel I would not have found out untill it was too late.
04 Dec 08 | pennie sheriff
my daughter also have scoliosis.i believe everyone should be tested young.
03 Dec 08 | Tara O Connor
Being diagnosed with scoliosis myself was very diffucult.I was diagnosed under a year ago yet my curves have increased to 50degrees lumber and 40degrees thoraic spine.I have learned to deal with my deformity in a mature and positive way.Im squelded to have surgery in summer 09.My achesspasms hopefully will be gone when i recover.I thank my school for the test because if They hadnt have done it i might have progressed in silence.I really agree with you Gillian and its very unfortunate you havent had the surgery.Thanks Lots ,Happy for a reply.Tara
03 Dec 08 | Stephanie Miller
01 Dec 08 | Nancy Lyles
All children should be screened
30 Nov 08 | Samantha Dunn
im 14 years old i have scoliosis and im having surgery in 2009. i suffer with a lot of back pain . please test for it in schools.
29 Nov 08 | Evie Daniel
Please put scoliosis testing back in all schools. We are fortunate that they have it here still. My son and my neighbors oldest daughter were found with it. My son did not have to have surgery but their daughter did have to. If it was for the school testing we may have never known to have the doctors examine futher.
24 Nov 08 | jeanette jacobs
my 13 year old daughter has just been diagnosed with scoliosis,she is waiting an xray to determine how bad it is,if these checks were done in school from the age of 10 she may have been caught sooner and be accessing help already
20 Nov 08 | Karen Straatsma
My sister noticed my scoliosis when I was 17 years old. Obviously, I was too old to wear a brace as I had stopped growing. No longer able to deal with both the physical and emotional pain, I underwent major back surgery at the age of 25. I had a spinal fusion and as a result have titanium rods in my back. Please reintroduce spinal tests in schools so there will no longer be a need for the painful and traumatic surgery.
20 Nov 08 | E B
I have scoliosis also and I understand the pain and embarrasement it can couse. The sooner diagnosed and treated the better.
18 Nov 08 | Julie Owens
Julie Owens
17 Nov 08 | Jeanette Fenn
I have scoliosis and at 55 suffering really bad pain and on medication for it. I totally support your campain and would dearly loved to have an operation to correct it, but now too old. So would definetly have my child tested rather than go through a life of pain.
17 Nov 08 | Margaret Frazier
Margaret Frazier
15 Nov 08 | Urszula Polak
Uwazam ze takie badania sa bardzo wazne.
13 Nov 08 | Andrea Doughty
12 Nov 08 | Sarah Wallimohammed
if this test only takes around a minute to do then why not just do it it will save years of pain and agony if caught. its better to be safe then sorry.
10 Nov 08 | Cynthia McClure
You can prevent a lifetime of pain and discomfort by doing this test and enable the person to live to his or her full potential.
09 Nov 08 | Lydia Scaroni
I was born with severe scoliosis and had to wear a body brace from the age of 817. I know all too well the problems experienced by anyone with this condition and the lifetime emotional distress it can cause. For others, scoliosis is not so apparent and I believe a simple test that can detect scoliosis at an early stage, thereby decreasing the chance of deformities and surgery, must be promoted.
09 Nov 08 | Andrew Kappes
05 Nov 08 | Sarah Tilling
04 Nov 08 | Sarah Schmitt
I think this is an awesome idea. I am all for it.
02 Nov 08 | Rodi Ionica
01 Nov 08 | Allison Cook
01 Nov 08 | Melanie Holt
01 Nov 08 | Sharon Stevens
29 Oct 08 | Carla Borthwick
I think its a good idea to be able to identify the problem earlier.
29 Oct 08 | Janette Butler
I am a mother of three who works as a Teaching Assistant in a Primary School. I am supporting this petition to prevent any child having to go through unnecessary suffering due to the diagnosis not being made early enough.
28 Oct 08 | Catherine Williams
I feel strongly about this cause as I also suffer from scoliosisI am only 15 and I have known about my scoliosis since I was 13, so I am one of the lucky ones.. I will be having an operation within a few months to correct my spine. Thank you to all those who support scoliosis
26 Oct 08 | Carol Vernoy
everything that can be done, should be done to raise healthy children........
24 Oct 08 | Adam Logan
My niece was diagnosed with scoliosis after having suffering severe pain. She missed out on a year of being a normal student. Though she bravely hung in there as she underwent surgery and recovery, I cant help to think what she may have been spared have she been tested prior to exhibiting pain. Please test kids for sciolosis every few years.
22 Oct 08 | Jane Harrison
I have scoliosis and bitterly regret not having a surgical option offered to me when I was diagnosed. It had marred the rest of my life and not a day goes by without it affecting me in some way.
20 Oct 08 | Emma Groenewald
Our daughter Elizabeth was diagnosed with spinal issues immediately after birth. This could progress into scoliosis, but with the early detection, we have an extremely good chance of preventing this happening. If children can be checked early perhaps not as early as ours then this can only be a good thing. A lot of problems could be prevented from ever happening, just by simple checks.
20 Oct 08 | Erin KellyGill
My best friend suffered from the effects of scoliosis but the disease was caught early due to school testing in Ohio, USA. She wore a back brace for almost a year she is now fine. All children all over this beautiful world need this quick and easy check for a healthier and happy life. God bless you all. With much hope for a brighter, healthy, and peaceful world, Erin
19 Oct 08 | Valerie Seidel
I too have scoliosis and was found when I was in school. I think this is very important. I was found too late as my skeletal system was already finished growing. My back continues to get worse and it is very painful.
18 Oct 08 | cecilia pena
I support your petition because i am somebody living with scoliosis since my youth.
17 Oct 08 | Andrea Davis
I have an adult friend with scoliosis, who have had to have surgery and a friends 15 year old daughter has just be diagnosed. Prevention without surgery is always better. I fully testing is schools.
15 Oct 08 | kerry pettiford
15 Oct 08 | HEIDI HACHERIAN
my sister had this proublem and it was found out in school. She wore a brace for several years. If she had not gotten treatment whrn she was growing she would be in a wheelchair today instead of walking It is so important that this disorder SCOLIOSIS. It is so important if you have ever seen someone untreated its tragic and can ruien a young persons life, Not all the parents of these children can afford or even know their child has it. Please Please lets take care of our wonerful blessings. Thankyou, Heidi Hacherian
12 Oct 08 | niki snyder
10 Oct 08 | Teresa TuckerAbbott
Good luck
09 Oct 08 | Julia Luyt
If this was you or your child, would you have liked a Scoliosis screening for all children, or would you have said This is too expensive.
08 Oct 08 | Tanya Bright
My scoliosis was caught early by a test in school. I think it would have been a long time before anyone would have noticed anything wrong with my spine without the test. I cant believe they dont do it in schools anymore
07 Oct 08 | Dahn Walker
I too was diagnosed with Scoliosis at the age of 10. It was through school testing that it was detected. I wore a brace for many years and was fortunate not to have to go through major surgery. Keep up the good work Emma Early intervention is critical
30 Sep 08 | Claire Barnes
28 Sep 08 | Lynne Bee
My daughter may have this condition we are awaiting an xray and an appointment to see a specialist. I didnt know anything about the condition until the doctor mentioned it and hope they will be able to help her for the future. I hope Emma gets all the support she needs good luck
25 Sep 08 | Graciela Ballon
Good luck Emma
24 Sep 08 | Gordon Docherty
Please help our children by enforcing this petition. Thank You
24 Sep 08 | DOLORES COX
23 Sep 08 | tara campbell
Test in schools, it takes just one minute and can improve peoples quality of life in the future.
21 Sep 08 | Deborah McClean
I am 31 and have just been diagnosed with scoliosis. Friends that have children have never heard of it and I strongly agrees that testing should be reintroduced
21 Sep 08 | louise littlefair
bring it back
18 Sep 08 | Madeleine duce
M Duce
16 Sep 08 | Sheila Sneezum
My daughter who is 15 was diagnosed with scoliosis yesterday with a curve of 40. She has been offered a brace as it is not bad enough for surgery. I noticed her rib sticking out but didnt think it was significant until I noticed her shoulder blade. I am traumatised as she is and worried for her future.
12 Sep 08 | Tina Vanden Broek
So many people know so little about so many health issues, schools are excellent choices to do mass screenings. Chiropractors are excellent choices for scoliosis and other alignment checks and should have offices in schools. Have health fairs every year and check for all kinds of hidden health problems like scoliosis, diabetes, heart trouble ect. Nutrition education too. Go for it Emma and expand your health awareness and education goals.
10 Sep 08 | Mari Yule
Every one has the right to healthBest wishes
09 Sep 08 | GERALDINE JONES
As a scoliosis sufferer Iwould welcome checks at an early age, the earlier the better.
09 Sep 08 | chloe pearson
I too suffer from scoliosis and fully agree in testing in schools, i was lucky i found mine out when i was youger, and attended a clinic esspecially for scoliosiswww.scoliosissos.com
09 Sep 08 | sheila horton
Sometimes there is no reason to suspect your child has this problem.. If wearing a brace early on can save years of misery later in life then it has to make sense. If cost is an issue then the nhs would save money in the long run.
08 Sep 08 | Mia McCarty
I understand how important it is to catch and treat scoliosis early enough. I remember being tested in school when I was a kid and hope it will be continued so others may benefit.
07 Sep 08 | Emma Larkin
My mum suffers from scoliosis and is in a good deal of pain. More should be done to help prevent this condition. I wish Emma all the best.
05 Sep 08 | Karen Marsh
My daughter will be admitted to hospital in three weeks time for scoliosis surgery. Anything we can do to find out sooner about this condition can only be viewed as a positive outcome.
03 Sep 08 | Vicky Richards
I myself suffer from scoliosis, and was diagnosed when i was 14. Now i am 20 and doctors still arent taking me seriously, im back and forth for xrays and consultations, ive tried physiotherapy and still no relief from the pain. I was bullied because of my height, and even now i have confidence and depression issues in relation to my crooked posture. I urge people to check their children before its too late, as i wouldnt wish this on my worst enemy let alone an innocent child.
01 Sep 08 | Maureen McAllister
A very slight scoliosis has caused problems for me for years and now at 61 it impacts on my life in many ways. I wish Emma the best of luck in her battle to get this test done to save many people pain in their later years.
30 Aug 08 | Elizabeth Verzo
30 Aug 08 | Lorna Kenny
29 Aug 08 | samantha preece
I totally agree that testing should be done in schools, my younger sister has scoliosis and wasnt operated on until adulthood where she had metal rods inserted into her back, she has had back pain all her life and we nearly lost her during the complicated operation, all of this could have been avoided if she had been tested in primary school, and would have saved the NHS a lot of money in the long run
28 Aug 08 | sam dunn
im 14 and i have a double scoliosis and have only just been diagnosed. it is painful when i sit down.dont let other children have the pain.
28 Aug 08 | Lauren Forrest
It is vital for children with this condition to lead as normal a life as anyone. So possible and research into it would provide hope.
28 Aug 08 | Colleen Willadsen
All I can say is PLEASE
28 Aug 08 | Angel McPherson
Emma you are AMAZING Godbless you on your journey.
27 Aug 08 | jacky tappenden
PLEASE start to check our children again,I am 61 and have lived with scoliosis since I was 12. I know have a 90d double curvature and pray that they will get a cure for the most terrible pain that I live with every day of my life. The point I am making is that if our children are tested they can be helped at an early age, I was born too early
26 Aug 08 | Caroline Stokes
I am signing this as I have had this all my life, and have had to be positive so I did not end up in a wheel chair.The pain can be unbearable, but i have learnt to manage it.
26 Aug 08 | helen hughes
they should be increasing all child health checks. im behind you 100 of the way emmax
24 Aug 08 | Jay Maxwell
Im signing this for a friend of mine whose case wasnt caught early enough. It was bad enough for me having to watch the recovery from that surgery. I cant imagine what it must have been to experience it. Whats a minute to take a test compared with months in recovery from surgery Bring the tests back
24 Aug 08 | Phionna Veitch
I was diagnosed with Scoliosis in 2005 at the age of 17. My parents said it looked like I was leaning over to one side when I felt I was standing up straight. I hadnt felt any pain despite my condition which is why I never noticed it. My curve was severe enough to need surgery, I was in hospital for 2 weeks, needed to wear a full body cast for 6 months and it took me a full year to recover compleatly. I cant help wondering if it had been diagnoses earlier, would I have needed surgery at all.
23 Aug 08 | Denise Nix
We need to do more well checkup care, so to stop a disease from getting a hold on the body. Preventive care should be the number 1 goal. Getting back to the basics.
22 Aug 08 | tina stacy
lets help our children. i have scoliosis.
21 Aug 08 | Marie Nohren
I was diagnosed with scoliosis at a school examination when I was in 6th grade. I used a brace for several years and did not have to have surgery nor did I suffer any from it today So please sign this and please make the checks mandatory in school as it was for me. It saved me from years of pain and suffering
21 Aug 08 | Marilyn Hatcher
I first had back problems aged 23 when pregnant with my first child in 1977, but was told it was pregnancy related. As the years went by it got worse, would frequently seize up, but I was then told it was lack of exercise My neck also caused severe problems that began aged 13 when I was told the pain was stress relatedand by my early 40s I was told I had Vascular Basilar Insufficiancy, but not what had caused it. I finally had spinal xrays taken 5 years ago which comfirmed scoliosis, and discs between my lumbar vertibrae were non exixtant. Things have got worse, xrays taken three weeks ago now show Thoracic curvature to the left and Lumbar curvature to the right, classic S shape. Most of my discs have worn away. As my mother had similar problems never investigated but she was told it was possibly osteoporosisand my eldest sister also has some scoliosis it appears to be genetic. I am now waiting to see a back specialist but have been told at 55 I am too far gone for surgery, and pain relief is the only thing left. I have a 17 year old daughter who often gets back pain, but with a visual check nothing shows up. Testing for scoliosis in children throughout their growing years is an absolute MUST.
20 Aug 08 | emma jane williams
I support this cause 100. Lets not go backwards when it comes to child health care
20 Aug 08 | Linda Adams
If such a painful and disfiguring condition can be avoided we must do everything possible to prevent it.
20 Aug 08 | Emma Bernard
18 Aug 08 | Meredith Wallace
I hope that all goes well.
16 Aug 08 | Jack Norman
I have lived with constant chronic pain much of my life which has been a continual struggle to overcome and compensate for the disability of congenital scoliosis. At the time of my birth and early years there was little that medicine could offer me other than a leather and steel brace that I wore through elementary school. Now, of course, through early detection and intervention there is no reason any child should ever have to live the painful life I have led.A 63, I am a model of scoliosis fully matured. To study my case would be to observe with accuracy what becomes of a child who grows to adulthood without receiving early detection, intervention, and treatment for scoliosis. If I can be of any assistance in getting this message out of early detection of scoliosis, I would be lad to do what I can.I am attaching below a QA article I wrote for publication on Ms Shanta Everingtons blog on scoliosis. I offer it for whatever aid it may have to supporting this worthwhile project.Thank you,Jack NormanPS I was moved and deeply touched by your account of your own experience of living with scoliosis. Jack Norman shares his experiences on striving to be normalJack Norman, 63, retired from a long career in television promotion and marketing in 2006. He lives with his wife and son in North Georgia, USA and has two other adult children and three grandchildren. Here, he shares his powerful, moving and ultimately uplifting story of his struggle to live a normal life with a curved spine. Jack welcomes your contact via email at jn2tv4aol.com.Can you tell me about when were you first diagnosed with scoliosisI was two years old when my mother took me to our family doctor and it was discovered that I had been born with scoliosis. The kyphosis was only slightly discernible at that time, but it was clear that my spine was curved. My scoliosis did not interfere with my early childhood. I attended my first day at school holding a new school bag with a brand new ruler, eraser, unsharpened pencil and wearing an I Like Ike campaign button. The year was 1952. School was enjoyable for me then, because the curvature was not pronounced enough to be noticed by other kids. Interestingly, my family didnt talk to me about my condition so it wasnt until I was in the first grade that I discovered it. Curiously, when I would reach around to my back with my left hand, it was fine. But when I circled my right arm around to my back just below the shoulder blade, there was an obstruction. That was my first awareness that something was wrong with me, that I was different. How was your scoliosis treated and how successful was thisIn 1963, when I was a sophomore in high school, my nextdoor neighbor told us about a doctor in New York City who was doing breakthrough back surgery and, in some cases, actually straightening curved spines. With that hope in mind, my family put me on a plane to New York City and made arrangements for my first surgery, a spinal fusion. Even though Dr. Von Lackum was a pioneer and innovator in openspine surgery, this was a radical and dangerous procedure for the times. However, he told my family that if I did not have the surgery to stop the progression of the curvature, I would be paralyzed or dead by age 35.As a teenager, I was young enough that I trusted doctors and the medical system completely. I flew to New York City alone, caught a cab to the hospital and signed in for what was, at that point, an exciting adventure. By the time I awakened in the recovery room, however, the excitement was gone. In its place was an agony that I never expected and will never be able to forget. I was told later that the surgery had been difficult and that I had spent many hours under the knife. It was, however, considered a success, and my scoliosis was thought to stabilized. I flew home to Norfolk, Virginia in a fulltorso body cast. My mother and sister met me at the terminal and took me home for a four to six month recovery. Given the severity of my scoliosis, I am very thankful for my mothers sacrifice in paying for my treatment. That spinal fusion enabled me to live the most normal life possible.I ended up having a total of four surgical procedures, the last in 2002. I had thought all along that I had stabilized at 53 degrees and that it wasnt going to progress any further. Apparently, sometime between 1995 and 2000 the destabilization took place.Change in pain levels over the years correlate directly with the sequence of surgeries. My overall pain level increased noticeably after each surgery, along with decreased flexibility and rotation of the spine, especially the cervical area.How have your experiences with scoliosis influenced your life and outlookIt is difficult to know exactly how scoliosis has affected my outlook on life. I cannot imagine life without it. It has been with me wherever Ive gone, like a friend you dont want but in time learn to tolerate. I believe that looking back one day I will see that my disability has been directly responsible for my search within to rise above it. For me, that search has led to a strong professional drive as well as to a deeper spiritual development that I may not have experienced otherwise. From my deep feelings of shame over scoliosis came an aggressive compulsion to succeed and to show the world that I was just as normal as anyone else. This played out in the form of extremely long hours at work that I would dedicate to any assignment, along with a pattern of heroic endeavors to do whatever it took to fulfill any request made of me by my managers, regardless of how unreasonable. I did my best to make myself indispensable and valued by my companies. I thought at the time that surely my 1215 hour days and heroic allnight work sessions would cause me to be looked upon as normal. It didnt work Even though I won numerous industry awards, substantial cash prizes and bonuses from my company and the praise of my peers and leadership, I could never silence that cry in me that said I was different, unequal to, and less than others. My wife remembers a single day, perhaps the Red Letter Day of my professional life, when I was awarded a large cash bonus, was promoted to vice president, and received a standing ovation from my entire company. I missed the moment of glory, because I was at a hospital having xrays made of my back. But later that night, after hearing about my promotion, I sat against the headboard of our bed and said to my wife, I hate myself. Nothing could fill that empty hole in me. It was not until my spiritual search led me to a mature faith through Christ that I was able to accept myself and be at peace with who I am. Looking back on that frenzied life of trying to compensate for my scoliosis, I am very thankful for the place of peace I now enjoy. If my disability has contributed to bringing me to where I am now, then I see it as a blessing and not a curse.Do you think the male experience of scoliosis differs to the female and if so, howThe biggest setback for me as a male with scoliosis is its negative impact on my ability to participate in sports. I dont think I encountered many experiences more humiliating than having to explain to my high school gym coaches and peers in gym classes why I couldnt participate in the school athletics program. Some coaches thought I was just shirking, others that I was weak, and of course in the showers peers ostracized me immediately for being different. The pain of this rejection was most acute at these times, especially for a young boy trying to form an image of himself and understand where he fit into his various social groups. These events left deep emotional scars. As a 63 yearold adult, I have now made much progress in this area of selfesteem, but it is still painful to reflect on. Kids with disabilities suffer cruelly at the hands of socalled normal peers, especially males in the competitive field of athletics. For an adolescent boy or a teen, achievement in sports is where much of their positive selfesteem comes from. When I wore what was known as a Taylor brace, in elementary school through the 7th grade, I was a highprofile target for taunting. Perhaps youre familiar with this brace. At first glance it calls to mind images of the medieval iron maiden, a device of torture that locked the victim into a hinged cage with protruding spikes. My instrument of torture was made of a steel frame with holes for the arms and many leather straps that cinched the whole thing tightly onto the torso. Two steel rails in the form of a normal shaped spine pressed against my notsonormal twisted spine and did its best to conform me to the shape of the steel one. Growing up like this resulted in crippling selfconsciousness that dogged me all the way through life. For someone who had spent most of his life trying to remain invisible from the eyes of others, the experience of speaking in front of a group was blatantly terrifying for me. I knew my fears were unreasonable but that didnt help. Decades after I had put the physical brace aside, the debilitating impression it made on my mind and soul was still intact. I was terrified that anyone looking at me was going to know my dreaded secret that I had fought to keep to myself that I was different, and worse, that I was deformed. I had done my best to disguise the curve of my spine and hide my deformity, buying shirts an extra size larger to make them fit looser, standing as straight as I possibly could, and always either consciously or subconsciously, distracting anyone with me from seeing my back. Really, it was not until I retired three years ago that I began to let go and to come to peace with myself. My entire career was spent in the emotional agony of feeling deformed and rejected and battling the chronic pain that drained me and gave me an appearance of being in nearly constant anguish. I thank God most of that is over now. It is bliss for me now to live daily with a family that loves and accepts me as I am.What advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with scoliosisTo be diagnosed with scoliosis today is much different that it was decades ago. With modern surgical techniques, there is little reason for anyone to suffer the pain and humiliation I experienced. Discovered early and with intervention, curved spines are routinely reconstructed and made normal. The advice I would pass along for consideration for anyone with scoliosis is the same I would recommend to someone with any disability or serious illness know who you are apart from your disability dont let your disability define the person you are and are capable of becoming.The greatest truth I have learned from my life experience so far is that we are more than our physical selves. To limit our selfview to what we can see in a mirror is to cheat ourselves of our best and most important part. For me the best part is my spirit and its perseverance beyond my physical body.
16 Aug 08 | Lee Darcy
All through grade school, I was regularly tested for scoliosis. Nothing was evident until I was 16. At the time a doctor discovered my scoliosis, I was told it was minor and not to worry about it. Two years later, I was in an orthopedic surgeons office discussing possible surgery because of the advanced curvature. I chose not to have the surgery, and rely on chiropractic adjustments to help with the pain.
16 Aug 08 | margaret elliott
As a teacher, I fully support this testing.
14 Aug 08 | Holly Brock
I completely support your goal to raise scoliosis awareness. It is often surprising how many people go undiagnosed. I just had the surgery to help fix my severe scoliosis last month. I am fifteen years old. Thanks for what you are doing for people like me
13 Aug 08 | Natalie Anderson
I was diagnosed in 7th grade with scoliosis and kyphosis. I whole heartedly agree that the screening should continue. I also think more publicity might help with a better treatment. Being 12 or 13 is a difficult time as it is for your personal image, but to be told you must wear a back brace for 23 hours a day for a few years or have your spine surgically fused together in places and a rod inserted is terrifying It was an awful experience I wish on no one, but going undiagnosed is even worse. You cant do much for this affliction after you stop your growth spurt Thanks Gillian for your support
13 Aug 08 | Melissa Martin
12 Aug 08 | Androulla Nicola
11 Aug 08 | Jo Moran
Good luck with this. Such little effort is required for a preventative measure.
11 Aug 08 | sue stafford
good luck with the petition
11 Aug 08 | jennifer haney
I live and work PE Teacher in the USA and we have mandatory scoliosis testing in schools and it truly works. Girls are tested in 7th grade ages 1213 and boys in grade 8 ages 1314 I highly reccommend it.
11 Aug 08 | Ariam Abraham
GOOD LUCK WITH THE PETITION
11 Aug 08 | Cathy Ellis
Scoliosis testing in schools is essential. I first noticed my spine curviture when I was about 12. Im sure it was there long before that My curviture has been getting worse every year, and I am now 54. The pain is constant. Good Luck Emma with your petition.
10 Aug 08 | Tracy Wardle
10 Aug 08 | Linsey Tomlinson
I had spinal surgery back in 1990 age 11 for Scoliosis and a S shaped curve. I also had cosmetic surgery for the hump it created in 92. I dont think surgery is an easy quick fix answer, by then you have the physical difference, pain and also self image problems trying to get something nice to wear what a job so anything which promotes awareness and manages to spot this early I totally support. Good Luck Emma x
10 Aug 08 | Ian Tomlinson
For my wife, best of luck Emma
09 Aug 08 | shirley mcenery
good luck emma with your petition, had corrective surgery when i was 26, prior to surgery had halo fitted, surgery went well, but have suffered continuos pain on the right side of my head which is now spreading to my left side. testing should be done in school early on to hopefully prevent a life of suffering and unnecessary pain.
08 Aug 08 | Siobhan Elliott
My scoliosis was not diagnosed until I was 14 by which time it had progressed severely. I had a harrington rod and spinal fusion at the age of 20. Now, at 45 I have pain every day and am watching my two cildren like a hawk and will do everything I can to save them from suffering the same fate. Testing in schools is imperative, its so hard to believe that it isnt happening. Equally, children of scoliosis sufferers should be monitored closely and not left to present too late. Good luck with the petition.
08 Aug 08 | Mohima Khanom
08 Aug 08 | Catherine Wood
My friend has this condition and had to have a major operation last week. Testing would prevent other people having to go through the same agony.
07 Aug 08 | j b
i hope this petition passesx
06 Aug 08 | Sally Newsome
04 Aug 08 | Eveline Carr
As a sufferer of severe scoliosis, I urge people to sign this petition.
04 Aug 08 | Sandra DeLong
04 Aug 08 | Craig Lewis
03 Aug 08 | Nadine Fisher
I think this is a fantastic idea. My little girl has Sprengels Shoulder, and I am concerned about her spine also. Fortunately we have had great support in this from the NHS. Testing in schools means ALL kids would get help if needed
02 Aug 08 | Fiona Wilson
01 Aug 08 | Kathryn Hirt
I can remember being tested for scoliosis in gym class as a child each year. The process is simple, fast, and effective. There arent many times in our lives when we can help prevent pain for our children. Catching scoliosis, before surgery may be required, can be one of those times.
31 Jul 08 | Lisa Weedon
31 Jul 08 | Tracy Bartlett
All my support and blessing Emma I pray your petition is sucessful
31 Jul 08 | Cristina Ferlusca
I was diagnosed with scoliosis since I was 14 but was a bit too late...Everyday Im in pain and is not easy. I would like to see this campaign in schools as soon as possible.
31 Jul 08 | Elaine Beverley
31 Jul 08 | Glenda Edward
My son has a scoliosis and is currently on the waiting list for surgery. He has undergone major heart surgery for a congenital defect since birth, which is the most likely cause of his scoliosis. Why didnt cardiac medics notice the deformity or did they but ignore it as not part of their remit Angry and upset mum of 14 year old Sam, who has had enough to deal with
31 Jul 08 | Irina Ross
30 Jul 08 | Andrea Fritz
30 Jul 08 | Maryann Dougherty
It only takes a few moments and can save years of pain
29 Jul 08 | Patricia Foote
If it helps one person, then its worth it. Please, please consider doing this and save people from a painful lifestyle
29 Jul 08 | Carolyn Casey
28 Jul 08 | Geri Heath
its not a complicated test to do, why not help people have one less pain in that difficult life
25 Jul 08 | Alexander Lester
25 Jul 08 | Barbara Carlucci
24 Jul 08 | Kimberly Kelly
My father suffered from scoliosis and I would like to see testing taken more seriously. It is done in American Schools however my sister now is showing signs of her spine curving and it was not caught in school examinations.
24 Jul 08 | Izabela Winders
23 Jul 08 | Michael Borses
My scoliosis was not caught until I was 22 years old and injured my back. The doctor looked at one of the numerous x rays they had taken and finally said in astonishment, You have scoliosis. I never understood all the aches and pains in my body. It prevented me from participating fully in athletics, often resulting in sitting on the sidelines with injuries and great pain. I went so far as to purchase new shoes to help me deal with the pain I thought resulted from poor form in running and standing. When I was 19 a dancer friend of mine was giving me a back massage to help alleviate some of the excruciating pain I routinely suffered when they remarked casually you have scoliosis. I scoffed and completely disregarded the amateur diagnosis surely a doctor would have caught it. Despite the numerous X rays I had in the coming years as I endured cancer it was never mentioned. Then, as a side effect of cancer treatment I had a seizure, resulting in a fall to the ground which injured my back. It would be an additional 2 or so years before the scoliosis was finally caught, despite the numerous x rays. Im convinced the disease was not caught simply because NO ONE WAS LOOKING FOR IT. The intense pain of this condition can be prevented by a simple screening. It is a tragedy to miss an opportunity to prevent a lifetime of pain with such a simple and effective procedure.
22 Jul 08 | elizabeth marshall
Thankyou, please click the link on the confirmation email we just sent. Dont forget to double check your junk folder
22 Jul 08 | Teresa Brook
If a simple quick test can help to avoid pain and suffering the it should be done
22 Jul 08 | Emmajane Toolan
Why wouldnt they do something as simple and effective as this WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE
21 Jul 08 | April Brandewie
This is a NObrainer Dont let what happened to Emma happen to anyone else It will prevent alot of pain for alot of children and will also reduce health care costs.
21 Jul 08 | Edel Geoghegan
21 Jul 08 | Naina Rathod
20 Jul 08 | Hazel Veitch
My daughter was diagnosed with scoliosis aged 16, I spotted it myself, she was operated on nows lives a normal life free from pain. It was only luck that I spotted it it was caught early enough for treatment to make a difference. She had an anterior spinal fusion with 6 vertebrae fused with a titanium rod bolts at the Edinburgh Sick Childrens Hospital. It took her a nearly a year to fully recover. If it had been picked up sooner, who knows, she may have avoided surgery which obviously had huge risks attached. She was brave enough to take the decision to have surgery herself.
20 Jul 08 | Alex Romero
alejandra Romero
19 Jul 08 | Angela Mandy
If expensive vaccination programs can be carried out, surely young children can be helped to reduce the symptoms of this debilitaing condition with the introduction of a simple test
18 Jul 08 | Barbara Marrama
Good luck Emma, we need this back in the school system in all countries and at all ages.
18 Jul 08 | ROSE SMITH
Becoue i also have a slight case of this disorder,which was detected in Elementary school,I think it is extreamly important to have children checked Rose Smith
18 Jul 08 | Michele Gogan
We were tested for Scholiosis in high school due to this a boy in our year had a life changing operation but if was found early would not have been needed. I am surprised testing is not done nowadays as it is such a simple test quick and with effective results.
17 Jul 08 | Melanie Rutt
I strongly support this effort, Emma. My son was diagnosed through school testing. I know it is an effective program. Awareness is important.
17 Jul 08 | Alison Gill
15 Jul 08 | cydonie miles
Ive just been diagnosed with scoliosis at 17 and am kicking myself that I nor anyone else spotted it earlier. Im booked in for the op later in the year as a result of this and would love it if all kids were checked before it reached this stage. Hope this makes an impact, Cyd.
15 Jul 08 | Sarah Nailor
My daughter,Emma also who is now 17, has just been diagnosed with scoliosis after years of increasing pain. She also suffered acute growing pains as the GP termed it, in her legs and knees during puberty. She has danced since she was 4 and is intending to go to University to study dance and eventually teach all forms of dance. If testing had been available to her at an early age, hopefully she would have avoided years of pain and distress. She intends to continue with her dance studies, despite everything and I wish you every success with your petition.
15 Jul 08 | Julie Henneberger
There is no reason NOT to provide this service for children. If you feel that providing a checkup that takes a couple minutes isnt worth saving a child from the potential anguish and pain of scoliosis, then I dont know what to tell you.
14 Jul 08 | ian macdonald
It is especially important to diagnose such condititions prior to puberty, when it is likely to be more obvious and during which time a youngster is prone to anxiety and stress about hisher physical state. Society is constantly complaining about the behaviour of young people early diagnosis is an opportunity to preempt stress and its symptoms. This is aside from the medical benefits.
13 Jul 08 | Shona McDonald
11 Jul 08 | emily bouffler
hello emma, good luck with your campaign, i too have a minor scoliosis which is very painful. it took 20 years after may observations by various profesionals who all could see no more than 1 cm difference in my postural symetry. when i eventually had an mri scan i was told that 3 of my spinal discs had deteriorated and the vertibray would soon fuse due to my scoliosis. eventually i had a leg length exray which showed a 26mm leg length difference from a leg break when i was 7 years old. in my fury i invented a posture indicating apparatus which i had patented, this caused interest by was deemed unprofitable. i thought all schools should have access to a posture indicating apparatus as too, all hospitals and health centres.it comprised a plumb line and ascending depth guage which would detect asymetric points of the body ie. knee heights , hip heights, shoulder heights. i thought this may be interesting to you as i have moved on from this aspect of my life since i had 3cm removed from my thigh bone and am a little straighter and stronger. keep shouting about this awful condition emma, good luck to you. kind regards, emily.
09 Jul 08 | Metka Koskas
I believe that all children should have periodic medical checks. We had this when I was at school.
08 Jul 08 | Joanne Smith
07 Jul 08 | Rebecca Reeves
Prevention is always better than cure
03 Jul 08 | kai weaver
I think it will help kids throughout the world.
03 Jul 08 | Bridgit LacyWolak
02 Jul 08 | renee finney
01 Jul 08 | Alicia Mulberger
I was fortunate to be diagnosed in school when I was 12. Unfortunately, my friend, age 25, was just recently diagnosed and is in debilitating pain. Please help all schools begin a scoliosis testing program
01 Jul 08 | Gaby Kingham
I took my daughter to our GP when she was about 7yrs old.Shes now 11 and wears a brace 23hrs a day and is due to have her operation next year. Checking children at school is so important and also raises awareness, which would have helped us, and especially my daughter, enormously.
01 Jul 08 | gloria salinaspicon
My daughter has been diagnosed with scoliosis, but only by chance. She was xrayed for a chest infection. Had this not ocurred, we would not have discovered the scoliosis and, needless to say, would have gone undetected and become a serious physical problem for her in adulthood. Had testing in schools been available, my daughter, Natasha, would have been diagnosed with this spinal abnormality at an earlier date and, with good guidance, would have now been on the road to recovery,unfortunately, this did not happen for Natasha. She will now have to spend most of her time with an extremely uncomfortable brace, excercise most of the day, and hopefully improve her condition enough to steer well away from the serious scoliosis operation taht keeps her awake at nights.Maybe this testimonial will help to enlighten those in the Establishment with the power to make appropriate changes, and help todays children become healthier and happier adults of tomorrow.
28 Jun 08 | Shirley Attenborough
I have suffered lower backhip pain for years doctors couldnt find anything wrong. In desparation at 53 years old i visited a chiropractor who xrayed my spine and discovered i have scoliosis. If only this had been sorted earlier.....
27 Jun 08 | morag maclachlan
This is of vital importance and so quick and easy to do something about
27 Jun 08 | Maria Slade
I have also got scoliosis ive had it since i was at the age of 10i have a S shaped spine the the top curve is 33 degrees and the bottom one is 39 degrees
26 Jun 08 | Beverley Davies
26 Jun 08 | Emma Parrish
Our childrens health is so important we must do what we can to help them where ever possible
25 Jun 08 | Janet Dixon
please do this as in the long run it will save on medical costs and also heartache for the sufferer.
25 Jun 08 | Louise Eades
This is very important to me as my Mum suffers from this condition. She is in constant and acute pain. If she had been tested and treated her life would have been considerably better.
25 Jun 08 | Angela Heap
25 Jun 08 | lisa cogdellbrown
25 Jun 08 | Theresa Russell
I have scoliosis fortunatley it isnt sever enough to require any treatment or have a detrimental impact on my life, but via the various check ups I had whilst growing up I had an opportunity to meet other suffers and see the impact it can have on someones life.
25 Jun 08 | carlene caldwell
We test our kids in schools early elementary school. This helps with early treatment. As the kids age the cost of Scoliosis is much more than financial. The physical, mental and emotional costs are severe.... please test your children EARLY for this. Takes only moments......for an increased quality of life
24 Jun 08 | Susan White
My son and daughter both have scoliosis, but were fortunate to be diagnosed early. Bracing worked for my son and my daughter is being monitored to see if she will need bracing. All children need to be screened for this condition
24 Jun 08 | Victoria Young
My mom has scoliosis as well. Its very important to check. My children were checked for it many years ago in middle school and it really makes a difference.
24 Jun 08 | Sue Mitchell
This is a much needed service for children to prevent much trauma in later life
24 Jun 08 | Ruby Collins
My grandson had a spinal tumor at birth, and following surgery to remove it, he was left a paraplygic. Additionally he has a severe form of scolosis, and is looking at surgery to put rods along his spine. He is only 8 years old.Please check the children closely to ensure others wont have to suffer with the severe forms this affliction can cause.Ruby K. Collins
24 Jun 08 | Deborah Blackstone
My child is not without trouble, altho not scoliosis. If there had been intervention earilier on, we still would not be faced with correcting these issues that he still faces. He is very healthly, and the system failed him earily on in his muscluar development. No child should have to wait to find out or find a solution with our advanced technology of today, especially when the test is so simple. Nor should a system fail a child when prevention or simple solutions are there to correct it and prevent the child from a future of trouble.
23 Jun 08 | Kimberly Griffith
23 Jun 08 | Alison Barker
I have scoliosis and wore a back brace between the ages of 1317 after being borderline for the operation to help correct my curvature. A friend of mine wasnt as lucky, after his was diagnosed externally. However, I think it is absolutely imperative that this check be reintroduced in schools. The government should not even hesitate over the cost. Good luck with succeeding in getting it reintroduced
22 Jun 08 | Wendy Hill
Why let a person suffer in pain when they dont have to
21 Jun 08 | Steve Gillespie
We need to test and retest kids regularly to monitor any curvatures before its too late.
19 Jun 08 | Pauline Faherty
19 Jun 08 | Jenny Lester
In the last week my daughter has undergone surgery for scoliosis aged 10 years. We have known of her condition for 3 years. When I first noticed anything it was to do with her shoulder at no point prior to this was I aware of a condition called scoliosis. Given how easy and simple the initial test is for establishing possible scoliosis it seems a crime not to increase parent awareness and make mandatory for health care professionals to carry out as their care checks for child every child counts.As a result, I am looking to create a network for parents and children to contact each other as a support groups as these do not exist.
18 Jun 08 | Dan Burgess
It seems such an obvious and simple thing to do in schools that I cant believe it isnt routine in the UK. Good luck with your campaign and all the very best of luck to you in future.
18 Jun 08 | Alison Nicholson
17 Jun 08 | Deena Bigger
Im 35 years old, and here in the states they had scoliosis screenings when I was in grade school. Mine was caught early enough to put me in a brace. I wore it for 212 years and although it was hard putting up with the teasing from the other kids, I avoided painful back surgery. Ive gone on to carry and give birth to 3 healthy children with minor back pain during my pregnancy. Best of luck to you in your fight.
16 Jun 08 | Fiona Melvin
16 Jun 08 | Maureen Stimpson
Wish there had been school tests when I was young. Now at 60 years old have a scoliosis which with age is so painful and unsightly. My father had the same problem but it was never sugguested it could be genetic in those days. Any child now should be tested am sure its not that complicated to determine if a child has a scoliosis so need be, can have any treatments etcs. before herhis bones are fully developed.
15 Jun 08 | Moira Ryan
My 15 year old daughter has just been diagnosed with scoliosis and my 14 year old niece also. If schools where testing this would have been picked up alot earlier. My niece goes for surgery in December, we are awaiting results from an MRI scan for my daughter. Good luck with your petition Iwe support you all the way.
14 Jun 08 | Roseann Martinez
13 Jun 08 | Jennifer Smith
I was diagnosed with scoliosis when it was too late to brace for meat the age of 13. I waited 13 more years before I had surgery that would be necessary, hoping against hope that an alternative cure would be found. I went from 85 degrees curve to 20 degree curve and it is shifting some again. Please test for scoliosis starting when children are infants Waiting may be too late.
12 Jun 08 | Helen Secular
This would be simple health check but help the individual lot in the long term.
11 Jun 08 | Sylvia Pilkington
Sylvia PilkingtonI think it is very important to reintroduce testing in schools as I saw a very good friend and neighbour suffer from Scoliosis for many years and also endured painful and major surgery which took many months to recover from. Therefore, I have no hesitation in backing your campaign. Good luck
11 Jun 08 | Sarah Blackett
I too suffer from an SShape scoliosis and have suffered this since the age of 12. Although I was put in a back brace, after 2 years UK doctors then closed the book and said Well, thats that then. Youll just have to live with it theres nothing more we can do. Since traveling extensively I have met some wonderful open thinking doctors and medical experts who all claim that there ARE things we can do to keep improving the curvature and managing the pain that comes with this condition. Pilates and regular exercise is top on the list. I definitely think the NHS should enforce regular spinal check ups at schools when childrens bones are still forming, so to avoid all the pain and emotional distress that comes with the condition later in life. Even if it cannot be cured, it can certainly be improved upon if detected at an early age.
10 Jun 08 | Triona OConnor
This test could save so much pain and suffering I cant think of a reason why everyone shouldnt sign.
10 Jun 08 | M. Lissette Saenz
I understand severe back pain and it truly effects all aspects of your life. I sign this petition to help children avoid going through any of the pain that I had to.
10 Jun 08 | Kerie Howlett
Testing of Scoliosis in all children in all schools needs to be mandatory. By being diagnosed early not only helps the child with coping with it but it will save the Health Department by not having to deal with the condition and it relating costs,in its later stages. Sometimes it just doesnt get through to Governments unless there is a DollarPound value to it. The child should come first and foremost.
09 Jun 08 | Rachael Wenger
We still do this test in the US. It is unthinkable that this easy, simple measure is not taken.
08 Jun 08 | LOUISE HANDY
L HANDY
08 Jun 08 | laura bilton
last year my parents noticed by back stuck out and my right shoulder blade was out of place. i went to the doctors were they reffered me to leeds genral infermary spinal clinic. i was later diagnosed with idiopathic scolosismy spine is a s shape. hopefully later this year i will be having my operation i just wish i could have found out sooner....... i think its brilliant what your doing and i will support you all the way
08 Jun 08 | Joanna Gunter
I dont see the harm in testing for things that will aid in our childrens well being Lets try and do possitive testing rather than pumping our kids full of chemicals that may prevent problems in the future
07 Jun 08 | Catherine A Skaleski
I went to a Catholic grammar and high school back in the day. Although I never enjoyed being tested, I know now that it was for my own good.
06 Jun 08 | Karen Dilks
For Sophie Brownless
05 Jun 08 | Graeme Darkin
05 Jun 08 | Jayne Kavanagh
05 Jun 08 | Paul Jones
Now that I have two kids of my own I really see the need for tests like this. It is really sad that these types of tests are not mandatory given modern technology and relative low cost.
05 Jun 08 | Paul Jones
Now that I have two children of my own I really see the need for more tests such as this one. Its so sad to hear about cases like this that could have been easily avoided with readily available modern technology.
05 Jun 08 | William myers
i lived my whole life in the uk and think that more tests should be done at school in order to help people avoid and reduce problems.
04 Jun 08 | Malcolm Ascough
If i had been checked at school age i would not have sufferd years of constant back pain.Well done in starting a campaign. you are a champion.
04 Jun 08 | Diane Neuman
Here in the States, our family Dr. never checked the girls for scoliosis and we are frequent flyers. If the school nurse had not identified the curve we would not have been able to provide appropriate care for our daughter.
04 Jun 08 | Elizabeth Bedford
I havent had any personal experience of Scoliosis but Emma, I saw you on the news and I think what youre doing for others is great. All the best and good luck with the campaign
04 Jun 08 | Eddie Hall
Had meself, so anything to support the cause.
04 Jun 08 | Viviane MackroryJamieson
I was also told for many years that I had a kink in my spine when I was xrayed. However, the word scoliosis was only mentioned by GP a couple of years ago. I also have osteoarthritis and, between the two, I am restricted in my quality of life. I am worried that my two grandaughters might inherit this problem and, as I was never tested in my youth, may also only find out too late in life to have anything done about it. I read about a young would be model in the Daily Mail some time ago, who had to have two very painful operations to correct her problem and I certainly would not even consider it at my age 64, especially with the added worry about CDiff and MRSAUnlike Gillian McKeith, I was my present height 59 12 since I was 13 years old.
04 Jun 08 | Scott Thomas
04 Jun 08 | Susan Hannigan
My daughter Sarah was diagnosed with scoliosis last year, we only discovered there was something wrong when we were at a wedding in Cyprus. She is one of the lucky ones, her operation took place on 12th April this year she now has 2 rods inserted in her back. She is 14 years old and the change in her is remarkable, not only has she grown but her confidence has returned and although meantime she cant participate in any physical activity, she knows by the end of the year she will be back dancing and swimming. We as a family had never heard of it, it just seemed to appear out of the blue I thoroughly recommend testing in schools....If a family member hadnt realised I dont know how long it would of been before we knew there was anything wrong
04 Jun 08 | Keelin Keogh
04 Jun 08 | Susanna Brennan
Emma, This is a very good thing you are doing I learned about your petition on the website httpuk.groups.yahoo.comgroupScoliosisnuttyMy daughter has scoliosis, and was also diagnosed too late to wear a brace.
03 Jun 08 | Kristina Kallas
I spent the first twelve years of my life with severe back pain that my parents always associated with growing pains. Then, thankthfully in 7th grade there was a scoliosis sscreening during gym class. I was immediatley sent to the nurses office were my parents were called and informed that I had what looked to be severe scoliosis. I hate to think of the pain I would still be in had it not been for that screening.
03 Jun 08 | Andrea Yeip
At age 65, my mom has suffered her entire life with this disease.
03 Jun 08 | jimmy papworth
I am doing this for a very good friend.
03 Jun 08 | Gill Davison
My friends daughter was diagnosed with scoliosis and is currently awaiting corrective surgery. She and her family have gone through a very difficult process to get the surgery. I am therefore fully behind your campaign
03 Jun 08 | Denise Mackay
my daughter has scoliosis, she is 13yrs old. she is into 2 weeks of wearing her boston brace to help correct her curve. If only we knew to check for changes in the spine we may of been able to start treament earlier. its not easy to spot at a time when girls cover themselves up and tend to slouch about anyway due to hormone changes etc. we need to be more aware.
03 Jun 08 | Nicole Webb
03 Jun 08 | Cassandra smith
i have a friend who had to undergo surgery 8 yrs ago to correct a double curve in her spine this may have been avoided if check were in place. as a nurse i know the risks that come from general anaesthetics adn spinal surgery particularly if it needless.
03 Jun 08 | JENNA VINTON
I dont want to see anyone going through what my Auntie went through, especially if this can be avoided.Thanks,Jenna Vinton.
03 Jun 08 | Jonathan Feather
03 Jun 08 | Dawn Matthews
02 Jun 08 | Petra Tizzard
02 Jun 08 | Clare Bird
I am signing this petition in support of an old friend.
02 Jun 08 | Molly Pallett
02 Jun 08 | Louise Page
02 Jun 08 | sarah jones
you have my full support, working in the NHS i see many patients coming in with this undiagnosed condition
02 Jun 08 | Lee Nuttall
If these checks were available in the past, then they should be now. Doing away with regular checks to save upfront costs is a short term view that puts potentially suffering children through agony in the future. Childrens health is vitally important.
02 Jun 08 | carley curd
02 Jun 08 | Wayne Langton
Good Luck
02 Jun 08 | Penny Richardson
I had to have a 2 stage correction fusion between t2l3 when I was 19 because my double scoliosis wasnt picked up when I was younger even tho I was being treated by an osteopath had numerous visits to my gp about my bad back.I will pass this onto as many people as I can.Good luckxx
02 Jun 08 | Alison Sawyer
I am 37 and have scoliosis and was not diagnosed until I had a chest infection when I was 23. It was too late to do anything and wish it had been picked up earlier.
02 Jun 08 | Laura Barrass
02 Jun 08 | TANYA SCOTT
02 Jun 08 | Michelle Godwin
02 Jun 08 | Joanne Dowson
02 Jun 08 | Cheryl Duke
I was diagnosed aged 10 after my mum noticed that one of my hips was higher than the other along with me constantly complaining of back pain. The drs decided not to operate or give me a brace as it wasnt deemed bad enough however one of my lungs is underdeveloped due to my spine twisting. Early detection is key to help thousands of kids who are already suffereing without being diagnosed. Its more commen than they think.
02 Jun 08 | Lisa Wright
All children deserve this test if an early diagnosis could prevent possible years of pain and anguish. If it was your child what would you want
02 Jun 08 | Helen Syson
02 Jun 08 | Jacqueline Woodcock
02 Jun 08 | Kate Alexander
My scoliosis was diagnosed in Australia when I was 12. I had harrington rods inserted for a curve of 61 degrees diagnosed four months earlier at 45 degrees.Im now 30 and living a normal virtually painfree life thanks to inschool screening. All kids need this service.
01 Jun 08 | Julie Pavett
We need screening and accessible treatment for scoliosis in the UK not the wait and see attitude.
01 Jun 08 | sheila Reay
01 Jun 08 | kenn reay
01 Jun 08 | Lisa Reay
just wanted to say good luck with this i wasnt diagnosed with scoliosis til i was 19 years old, but im lucky as i dont need an op and its not getting any worse testing in schools would mean this would be caught a lot earlier
01 Jun 08 | Eileen Barrass
Surely early detection has got to be a benefit.
01 Jun 08 | Vanessa Murphy
I too have scoliosis and have only recently been diagnosed. i went to school in the UK and if i had have been tested, maybe I would have known about my condition earlier, rather than being in my mid 30s with children of my own.
01 Jun 08 | David Baker
My 16 year old daughter has a serious scoliosis 52 degrees we are waiting to have operated on. It was not found soon enoough for a brace, we were told it was not an issue in AE after a fall. To get proprerly diagnosed we had to go privately. My 11 year old son has a scoliosis again we have picked this up ourselves. We desperately some experienced professionals who know what to look for to stop our children suffering the pain they do if this is not properly diagnosed soon enough It is criminal to ignore this and the lack of knowledge in the general medical profession is frightening.
01 Jun 08 | victoria frost
01 Jun 08 | Tina Brinklow
01 Jun 08 | Marc Hughes
I suffer from scoliosis, but fortunately it was detected at 6 months old. I have never needed surgery due to braces and castings, I would say that schools should be checking this as it is not always easy to detect
01 Jun 08 | Dale Stokes
Another instance when prevention in the form of a simple test can prevent years of pain and the necessity of surgury.
01 Jun 08 | Robert Dyson
As said before, I was impressed by your news report, I hope it will raise awareness for this condition, and as you said, if what youre doing helps just one person, then its worth it. Kudos.
01 Jun 08 | Julie Kanter
01 Jun 08 | Joana Silva
Its amazing to see what this girl is doing. She has my support.
01 Jun 08 | Robert Eyley
Good for you good luck Very impressed with your news article.
01 Jun 08 | Sophie Equi
I am 16 years old and in February this year, I underwent major surgery to correct my severe form of Scoliosis.If spinal tests were present, my condition would have been picked up much earlier and physiotherapy or bracing may have helped stop the progression of the curve instead my life was turned around by the devasting surgery I went through. Also, even if they did undergo surgery to correct it, the results would have been much better and the extent of correction of my curve greater.I am now proud to say I am well on the road to recovery and getting back to normal, but I think it was unfair that my spine had been allowed to develop to the stage were my mobility was threatened.
01 Jun 08 | Angela Knowles
Thinking back my scoliosis was apparent at a medical when I was Emmas age a winged shoulder being mentioned at a school medical but no action being taken. In my early 20s I was suffering some pain in my right side and was sent for physiotherapy sessions with old people with rheumatism. I was soon released from these sessions as I was deemed to be fit i.e. able to execute the exercises with relative ease. I have been extremely fortunate to maintain reasonable mobility and have joined in all sporting activities with my family including squash, swimming, hiking etc. Now, at the age of 66 I am needing some osteopathy sessions just to release tightened muscles on the curves.I strongly advocate screening at birth and at 1012 to identify and start to treat scoliosis as soon as possible. The NHS needs to provide this service not on a voluntary basis but as routine screening for young people.Good luck EmmaRegardsAngela Knowles
01 Jun 08 | Jonathan Armond
01 Jun 08 | Jo Willoughby
I had Kyphosis when i was 11 had a brace, when i was 22 i had a metal rod attached to my spine at Queens Medicial.My daughter is coming up to 10 years old we asked for a referral to Queens which we got i informed the school nurse when she started school and they have done nothing. So i think it would be a good think
01 Jun 08 | Andre Simm
My 13 year old daughter will be having her operation to correct Scoliosis in 2 weeks time. Whilst this check doesnt prevent the condition, I believe it and more information to parents could have identified it sooner, so the treatment some of which can only offer 50 correction would have been more effective.Well done for starting this campaign
01 Jun 08 | steven cooke
i support your campaignqas i have had scholiosis all my lifedue to much leg and foot surgeryleading to a 3 inch limpand curiosly my mishaped rib cage and un level shoulders etcboth symptoms i have realised only from your tv report on bbc24 newsi am 45 and have asked my doctors gps and poss specialists and no one ever told me why my ribs and organs hurt oftenwhich is due to my misshaped spineas i had guessed and asked about often.other than being told i have schiliosis about 4 years agoduring my latest surgeryi have never had a conversation about the conditionas with my rib and organ paindue to my onesided rib cagenever been discussedso i have also just learnt from you an hour agothat there is surgery available for schiliosis.i have club feet and it seems my schiliosis is not considered worthy of discussioni have tried maybe 5 times to raise the subject due to my incredible back pain mostlyim just told not to worry orand well what do you expecti have never had a scan on my spine or had any explainations or offers of surgery or even a dedicated appointment with a specialistyet my father has had manyas he has the same conditionproblems as me.so thank u for educating meand i would have had an entirely different lifeif i had ever been diagnosedand my condition was inevitable due to my severe limp.take carelove steve xx
01 Jun 08 | Miranda Clarke
Hi Emma, I just saw you on the news and think that your great Your efforts are making a difference. Just from the BBC covering your campaign, I learnt the basics of how the test works, and what signs to look for. Thank you. xMx
01 Jun 08 | Andy King
Wazzzah Saw you on the news Good luck for your campain best wishes,AndyK
01 Jun 08 | Wayne Sinnott
Such a simple test that can be carried out in seconds at schools must be done as routine.
01 Jun 08 | JAnet Fuhrmann
My 12 year old daughter Victoria is currently in The RNOH Stanmore having her operation to correct her Scoliosis. My 14 year old daughter Sam also has the condition and we were first alerted to the problem by my sisterinlaw who lives in Luxembourg, her daughter had a routine check when it was discovered and she is currently wearing a brace. Good luck with your petition you have our full support.
31 May 08 | Richard Woolliams
Well done Emma for high lighting the issue. I saw your piece on the News tonight. I am a therapist and I work alot with children who have scoliosis. You are absolutely right, a simple check could spot curvature early and prevent it becoming a serious problem. All the very best with your petition. Richard.
31 May 08 | anthony smith
Good luck in your quest,may your wishes be granted.Tony.
31 May 08 | Martin Nicholls
A simple test, at low cost, which could aid early detection and treatmet
31 May 08 | Jo Bonfield
31 May 08 | Alison YeoRiley
Emma is my neice and has been very brave throughout her operations and hospital appointments.
31 May 08 | Andrea Brownless
My 5 year old twin daughter has scoliosis which was only diagnosed at 18 months old when she decided to see if she could fly off the couch. After a whole day in hospital and a wrong condition diagnosed, our GP got involved and was fantastic and managed to get us in to see a spinal expert. My daughter now has regular check ups. All children should be checked for this condition, as I read too many stories of people who are diagnosed too late and by then surgery or correction is not an option.
31 May 08 | Sharon West
My daughter has recently been diagnosed with scoliosis. She is 13. It was a huge shock to see her spinal xrays. I now feel that I am on a mission to find all that I can about this condition. She is due to see a spinal specialist in a few weeks. Good luck with the petition.
31 May 08 | Jane Bushell
I have just seen your interview on BBC News 24. You are a fantastic young lady best of luck with your campaign.
31 May 08 | Jazz Tamani
My best friend has a similar condition and I know shes had to go in for numerous operations which have affected her work at school and her social confidence. Its a brilliant idea to have this back in schools.
31 May 08 | Madeleine Menzies
31 May 08 | Jeanette Lewis
30 May 08 | Andrea Brownless
Sending.....
30 May 08 | MEGAN PASSMORE
30 May 08 | Hazel Whitehead
I, myself, suffer from scoliosis, which was detected by a routine medical exam carried out when I was at high school, aged 13. I was given a back brace, which I wore for four years and avoided the need for surgery. I wholeheartedly support this campaign for scoliosis testing at an early age, especially when its such a quick procedure.
30 May 08 | karen rudley
30 May 08 | Ann Taylor
I am a suffer myself.Mine is caused by having a skin condition, Ehlers Danlos which is a muscle weekness. My biggest problems are reaching the top shelfs either at home or in shops,especially supermarkets. Supermarket Trolleys are also a nuisance when under 5ft tall.
29 May 08 | Margaret Owens
my granddaughter and a friends grandaughter were both diagnosed with scoliosis with in afew month of one another . Please introduce testing in schools.
29 May 08 | Julia WHITAKER
29 May 08 | Kathy Aldred
My daughter was diagnosed with mild scoliosis at the age of 16 after a friend saw her in a swimming costume and pointed it out to me too late for a brace as her bones have stopped growing but she has been given exercises by a physio that she will have to do for the rest of her life. If only we had found out earlier it could probably have been corrected by wearing a brace. I had never heard of the condition. She is very self conscious about her curved back but so far no pain. So yes, I support checking for this condition in schools.
29 May 08 | Harriet Gribble
My Dad noticed my spine was wonky so we went to see a doctor. I was told i had scoliosis a year ago. I going soon for a fitting for a brace. Early detection is vital.
29 May 08 | James Rennie
As a sufferer of Kypho Scoliosis i have endured this since I was in my early teens. I kept on working as long as I could but at the age of 55 I had to admit defeat and retire. I have been taking pain killers since my middle twenties I am now 68 and for the last few years off my working career I was popping the maximum dose every day by that time I was being prescribe Tramadol and was taking 8 a day. I realise the agony and pain both physical and mentally that this condition can bring so if a simple spinal test can lead to a person having the correct medical care then it must be done. Good luck in your campaign to bring this to fruition.J. Rennie
29 May 08 | Norma Rimmer
I also have scoliosis and early detection is vital. A simple spinal test can make such a difference.
29 May 08 | rebecca trimble
28 May 08 | Joanna Owens
My daughter is 10 years old and has been diagnosed with scoliosis. She is now waiting to have a brace.
28 May 08 | Caroline Lennox
My daughter was diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of 13, and had to have two metal rods inserted in her back. She is now 28years old, and lives life to the full. Luckily for us, her PE teacher noticed the curve on her spine, and acted immediately to inform us.
28 May 08 | Lesley Willis
My friend Viv Moore has just gone through her third major spinal operation in twenty years due to scoliosis. Hopefully this one will be the last
28 May 08 | deborah kiely
I support the right to bring check back into schools for scolosis.I myself have scoliosis, which was spotted when i was 10 by the herart specialist where i was attending for heart murmur.I had to have the operation on mine.I have always checked my children especially both my girls, who luckily have been okay. But considering i had the conditon no doctor has ever checked my children. My younger brother also has a slight curvature.
28 May 08 | Joanne Fennell
My parents noticed one of my shoulder blades protruding more than the other when I was 13. I wore a brace until I was 16 until I stopped growing. I was lucky being diagnosed when I was young enough to be treated. Now a 40 year old mother of a 10 year old daughter I am very aware of scoliocis and check her spine periodically. Not enough people are aware and I wholeheartedly agree with this campaign and wish you lots of luck.
28 May 08 | Pauline Withey
I wish mine had been recognised earlier. At 33 and having nursed for some years,before I was diagnosed, that was 18yrs ago, since then Ive worn a raised shoe, as one leg is shorter. I have now suffered with pain in my back and legs for some years. It may well end my career.
28 May 08 | ROBYN LEEDHAM
I am 18 and have scoliosis and have had it knowingly for 2 years but the doctors have decided to watch and wait wich has not helped in the slightest and have now today been told i may need an operation something that could have been sorted out 2 years ago with a simple brace but also before then if it had been diagnosed in school or the doctors had picked up on it through the numerous times i went to the doctors with my mum since about 12 wich they put down to growing pains when infact all the pain in shoulders hips and back were related to this
28 May 08 | micki picklow
the time is now to step up.. lets give all kids and adults a fighting chance for a great life.
28 May 08 | Donna Church
28 May 08 | Cherry Mattey
I was diagnosed by my Mother at 13 when I bent over to play with our new puppy this should have been picked up at a school medical check up earlier.
28 May 08 | valerie rayner
28 May 08 | Lynne Chapman
I am 60 and was diagnosed with a thorasic scoliosis. aAs a small child I had to endure spinal jackets and horrendous types of excercise for a long time until I was put under the care of a Mr Glass at Booth Hall Hospital..there I had radical surgery where the bones were taken from my legs and grafted into my spine to prevent the curvature getting worse. I was in hospital for almost two years. Whilst I realise that great progress has been made in the surgery I would hate for any child to have to go through this when a simple check in school or nursery could nip it in the bud. Although I dont suffer too badly with back pain it has always affected my breathing as my lungs are a little squashedGood luck to you all
28 May 08 | Sandra riley
28 May 08 | Irene Phillips
As an osteopath, we use powered spinal mobilising instruments which help reduce the curves of scoliosis and can be measured by using a radiation free SpinalMouse scan. So many teenagers are ignored since school checks have been abandoned. Bring them back as the sooner diagnosed the better.
28 May 08 | E Keating
I suffer from Scoliosis and think that testing in schools would be an excellent idea. Good luck to all involved
27 May 08 | KIRSTY DONALDSON
My son Jack started walking at 10 and a half months and just 2 weeks after that we noticed that his ribs oddly stuck out at one side, we took him to the doctors who inturn referred us to a specialist who diagnosed him with Scoliosis. Our son is now 20 months and we are waiting for an appointment for an opperation to put rods in place to help straighten his spine. As you can imagine my husband and I are very worried parents and we are very nervous about my son having the operation but after reading about Gillian and other peoples comments below its helped me realise that it will be so much better for him to have the operation. When my son was first born my mum and sister would laugh at me because I was always examining my son closely and if I wasnt sure about anything I always asked questions Im now glad that I paid attention and caught this when he was so young, hopefully my son wont remember anything of the operation when hes older. It always helps to have a second or third pair of eyes to check if youre unsure of your childs health even if you think its something silly you should always get a second opinion, so I totally agree that spinal checks should be reintroduced back into schools.
27 May 08 | Janice Mackintosh
I have been diagnosed with Scoliosis today and am most concerned regarding this news, therefore I certainly would support testing in schools. I would recommend to all parents , that they advise the school their child attends to to have their children tested for Scoliosis.
27 May 08 | Linda Gray
When I was learning to walk as an infant, a retired nanny advised my mother to consult a doctor regarding my walkposture however the doctor just passed it off as an over anxious mother. It wasnt until I was about 16 it was diagnosed at a school medical and I was told my bones were now formed therefore nothing could be done to rectify the problem. I am now approaching 60 and for the past two years have been attending an Osteopath where I have had treatment with a PAMM machine power assisted micro manipulation this has help my posture and my shoulder blade no longer protrudes as much as it did. I was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease 8 years ago and would be interested to know if any other scoliosis sufferers also have this disease and whether there is a connection. I also have osteopenia and advanced spondylosis. Testing in schools from an early age is vital if the condition can be rectified and hopefully lead to a better quality of life as one gets older.
27 May 08 | Jean Graver
I have recently been diagnosed with Scoliosis at the age of 62. I have also been told that I have had the condition since birth however, I was never examined as a child. I fully support your campaign for the reintroduction of spinal tests in schools.
27 May 08 | Marion Currie
I have scoliosis and I am very vigilant with my 3 childrens backs. Not every parent knows about the condition, though, so testing in schools is vital
27 May 08 | Josie Cowgill
27 May 08 | Nicola i
27 May 08 | kate hodsdon
27 May 08 | Rachel Thomas
Having read Gillian and Emmas stories I firmly believe that spinal tests should be reintroduced in schools, even if it only helps one child it will be worth it. Funding should not come into this, childrens health is of paramount importance, the Government should not think twice
27 May 08 | Christina Tattersall
27 May 08 | Juliet Colley
27 May 08 | Lisa Stringfellow
27 May 08 | Victoria Duncan
please help these ypung girls.
27 May 08 | Hester Grainger
I am now 30 and had my scoliosis operated on when I was 11. I had a rod inserted but still have a small hump where my rib cage protrudes. I lead a healthy and happy, active life and its me made who I am today But I do believe that by testing in schools fewer people will have to endure operations to correct scoliosis. Make tests compulsory, you know it makes sense
27 May 08 | Catherine Robertson
i had surgery because i had scoliosis when i was 14 years old I was in a lot of pain before and had to go to Edinburgh .the school doctor noticed it .i am very greatful to the doctors that did the oapration and i would like to sign the petition.
27 May 08 | Penelope Polins
My Scoliosis was undiagnosed until I was in my 30s. I had severe back pain from the age of 14 but nothing was picked up by the school nurse or my GP and I never gr4ew taller than 410. Last year I had surgery for slipped discs at the base of my spine and as a consequence I grew 1 inchif there was spinal checking in schools maybe other girls wouldnt have to endure an adult life of back pain like I have since 1983.
27 May 08 | elizabeth pitt
my daughter has scoliosis we noticed iy after she left school
27 May 08 | Beryl Gray
I have lived with scoliosis with little or no medical help for almost 60 years since being diagnosed at 13 . It has been painful and embarrasing. Debilitation increases with age so the golden years are tarnished. An early simple test followed by medical and physiotherapeutic care should be a given to prevent or ameliorate the emotional and physical distress of scoliosis. .Every child needs this painless test.A straight spine is crucial to a healthy physical and emotional life. It is the very structure upon which a healthy society relies.
27 May 08 | Sophia Illiadis
Ms McKeiths story is my story although her curve seems to be worse than mine. I too have a daughter and worry about her spinal health, particularly if it hereditary although like Ms McKeith, no one in my family on either side has ever had it. Early detection and medical assistance would have saved me from a lifetime of trauma on several fronts. Good luck with the petition. All the best to Emma.
27 May 08 | heather stanton
there needs to be testing done as this was how it was found i had sciliosis. The high school physical exams found this and corrected it to make it possible to function. Only now at age of 35 it is serioulsy affecting my function. but i can go and see a specialst about surgery because i know i have it.Schools need to do these tests again to help save kids spines, it can be helped if detected early enough by back braces.
26 May 08 | J Thomson
I was diagnosed with Scoliosis at the age of 17 only because I had my Kidneys xrayed. I had passed a kidney stone My Scoliosis was bad enough to need surgery. I thought the fact my waist curved in only on one side and straight on the other was due to the fact I was still going through puberty. At 18 I had spinal fusion and a Harrington Rod inserted. That was 20 YEARS ago and have been in pain every day. What will it take to get a simple check in schools done I was laughed at in school, called hunchback, at the age of 13 I look back now and realise I had Scoliosis then, if only schools had been educated then I might have been diagnosed earlier.
26 May 08 | Sue Jarvie
I have suffered from scoliosis since childhood, I am now 54, and I know how much this condition affects not only your health but your self esteem generally. I wholly support this petition for scoliosis testing.
26 May 08 | Vanessa Verlander
26 May 08 | carole payne
My mother suffers badly with scoliosis which was not diagnosed until she was 55. I am now 55 and seem ok although I do suffer from back and hip pain. I am worried about my children and grandchildren and would not want them to suffer like my mother.
26 May 08 | sharon charlton
Simpel checks like this at the right age could save a person from a life of pain, come on Britain we can change this
26 May 08 | Helen Gardner
I was diagnosed with Scoliosis at 14 and had to wear a brace until I was 16. Unfortunately it was not caught early and so my only real option was to have surgery. I underwent a 13 hour operation in the summer of 97 when I was 16 and had 2 titanium rods attached to my spine to help straighten it. I am now involved as a regional secretary for the Scoliosis Association UK and agree that the awareness needs to be raised and checks reintroduced.
26 May 08 | Ana Cobas
26 May 08 | Liz Hansen
26 May 08 | Frances Bishop
People should not have to live their lives in severe pain and discomfort. If this disease can be dealt with in childhood then it is our duty to make sure no child slips through the net to go on to a life of agony.
26 May 08 | Sheila Hurrell
26 May 08 | Jenny Gordon
26 May 08 | emma downward
26 May 08 | Julie Hawkins
Scoliosis should definitely be tested in schools we should do everything we can to help the future generation.
26 May 08 | Peggy Frost
My daughters scoliosis was first discovered at a routine school health check when she was about 12 years old. She was seen be a specialist consultant and wore a spinal brace for about four years. I believe the brace helped slow down her developing scoliosis. I must say, she was exceptionally good at wearing the brace for the recommended periods of time. Though she eventually had surgery at 16 years old, it was not as radical as it might have been and we could plan it around her GCSE exams. The early identification of her scoliosis alerted us to check her younger sisters back. I absolutely support scoliosis testing at school. The early identification of my daughters scoliosis helped, not only with treatment, but also how well she managed to cope.
26 May 08 | David McFarlane
26 May 08 | Barbara Cosh
I am 50yrs old and suffer from scoliosis and kyphosis since childhood.It was never picked up other than being told to stand up straight, which I could not do and still cant.I am now too old to have any sort of surgery and have had spinal injections to help with the pain. My daughter has kyphosis and is being monitered at the general hospital, more often than not appointments are cancelled. I am just about to attend an eight week course at Sutton Hospital called COPE. It teaches us how to manage our pain. I feel very strongly about this subject as it has affected so much of my life and, especially now, as I feel it is getting worse and am very, very self concious of the hump in my back. There is never a part of my day when I am not in pain but do not take pain killers unless I have sciatica and can no longer bare the effects. This sort of pain is debilitating and wearing. The effects are tiring. Sorry for going on and on. I hope this all makes some sort of sense.
26 May 08 | Tijen Djemal
26 May 08 | Tracey Brown
26 May 08 | Patricia Parsons
26 May 08 | L Dunphy
26 May 08 | Deborah Blaser
Deborah Blaser
25 May 08 | Anna Cowell
25 May 08 | Esther King
I had surgery for spinal curvature when I was 11 but it was so far advanced that it could make little difference. I try to keep myself fit and watch my diet. I take prescribed Calcium supplements but the top part of my spine is showing well into the osteoporosis region on the scan and my lung capacity is 50.
25 May 08 | Cecily Roberts
Please help to lessen the pain of sufferers.
25 May 08 | Helen Hill
Apparently my mother has scoliosis too. I have a son who is very short for his age. After reading Gillians article where she mentioned shoulder blades protruding, Im considering taking him to the GP as even when standing perfectly straight, his shoulder blades stick out alarmingly but his back appears to be straight. With my mum having scoliosis, I think I probably should get him checked out.
25 May 08 | TRACY CARPENTER
25 May 08 | Carolyn Bostle
25 May 08 | Kirsty Brown
A signature to support one of the most precious friends in the world xxx
25 May 08 | Claire Moran
25 May 08 | Caroline GardnerGreen
I have Scoliosis which wasnt discovered until I was 16 and had stopped growing. It was too late for me but for many other young children maybe mine this neednt be the case.Spinal checks are of the utmost importance and I hope they are reinstated in schools.
25 May 08 | Helen Hamilton
25 May 08 | Janet Harvey
I have Scoliosis. My Scoliosis was diagnosed at age 15 with one 92 degree cirve and one 96 degree curve. I was almost too old for the operations as my bones had started to harden. They said it was the worst case they had seen in 10 years. I had suffered years of paralysing fits and appalling nerve pain and yet no diagnosis was made until I was 14 despite repeated trips to various GPs. If my condition had been diagnosed when I was in infant or junior school, insead of in secondary school, I would not have had to have all the very invasive operations I have had. When I was 15, I had 2 operations on my spine. 1 to insert a harrington rod to hold up my spine and 1 to remove bits of spine before the rod was put in. I also had 1 on my ribs to harvest bone for a graft on my spine. I then spent a year in a full body plaster cast and a further year in a plastic jacket brace. This meant 3 months in hospital and a year off school whilst recovering so I fell behind with my schooling. I now have one 43 degree curve and one 32 degree curve which is better than the surgeon had hoped for.When I was 21, I had an operation on my deformed ribs to remove 6 ribs to make them grow back straight and break the 7th and reset it. This meant about 6 months off in another plastic jacket so I lost my job. When I was 32, I had an operation on my neck to repair 3 discs with plastic replacement parts, a bone graft and a titanium cage. This condition would not have happened but for my severe and late diagnosed scoliosis, and caused a further 10 years of searing nerve pain. I am so lucky that they could at least operate, but it should never have come to this. A simple check by the school nurse should have picked it up but it never happened. I am covered in scars front and back, and despite the operations I am still very misshapen and have bad back ache most days. I dont want another child to go through this when all is needed is for a school nurse or GP to check childrens spines regularly in their early years.
25 May 08 | Alsu Remi
I think preventative care including screening should be the main government policy as it not only saves the taxpayers money but also some lives as well. Screening for many life conditions as well as general health checks should start at birth and not after 3040 when its too late. Schools are one of the best places for that type of care and it should be done annually. Especially that parents so often just dont know about some conditions and what to look out for in children. While early treatment usually can almost always give the best results in complete cure of most ailments.
25 May 08 | Alsu Remi
I think preventative care beginning with screening is very important and should begin from birth not after 40 or 50. It will save huge amounts of taxpayers money and improve health of the UK population. And schools actually are one of the best places for that care as well as workplaces.
25 May 08 | C Aldridge
After noticing a change in my back at 1213 years old, I was lucky enough to visit a GP who suffered scoliosis herself. I had corrective surgery soon after and Im so glad I did. Good luck with the petition
25 May 08 | Muriel Lewis
I am only too delighted to add my name to Emmas campaign, I too have scoliosis and have done for many years, Gillians article was so very true, I dont know anymore what its like NOT to have backache and trying on clothes in a changing room surrounded by mirrors is a nightmare, it shouldnt matter so much for me anymore as I am now a pensioner but I would so love a DRESS Gillians gold dress to me is delightful Go for it Emma, children should be tested automatically, and thanks Gillian for a brilliant article.
25 May 08 | Daksha Webb
25 May 08 | David Starkey
25 May 08 | Jackie Cawthra
25 May 08 | Nicole Stocking
Being aware is so important, all children should be checked as a matter of routine. As a mother of a teenage daughter with Scoliosis this has come as quite a shock to both of us, I wish I had known more earlier, maybe my daughter could have been fitted with her brace earlier, this may have made a difference, who knows
25 May 08 | Susan North
Fortunately my daughters scoliosis was discovered on school inspection at 5yrs old, in 2000. However, by the time my son started school this inspection had been withdrawn. We would never have been made aware of this, and my daughter is about to have a brace fitted next month at 12 yrs old.
25 May 08 | Katie Mulligan
25 May 08 | JANETTE ROBINS
I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 15. I have a 43 deg curve which has never been treated, although I had regular check ups. I am now 47 and fortuanately only suffer occasionally with back ache. I do regular exercise including pilates which has helped me to cope with my condition. I believe that if my curvature had been diagnosed earlier, I could have had treatment. I have three grown up children and I regularly checked their spines. This simple test should be reintroduced into schools as early detection is important so that treatment can be given.
25 May 08 | Emma Copeland
I think it is fantastic what you are doing, i am very happy to put my name on your petition, all the best.
25 May 08 | Victoria Houldsworth
Having osteoarthritis in my lower back,through to much lifting, I know the pain that a bad back can give a person.
25 May 08 | Megan Page
25 May 08 | David Hill
Whilst I have no respect whatsoever for anyone who claims to have degree qualifications from non accredited universities, the Poo Doctor has a good point whether she really has scoliosis or not...
25 May 08 | Nicola Sharpe
As a pilates instructure I work with people with various issues, scoliosis being one and wish to support Emma.
25 May 08 | Elizabeth Ritchings
I was diognosed with scholiosis when I was 11 in 1985. My Grandmother was stroking my back one evening when she noticed that my right rib cage was more prominant than the left, and , concerned, suggested my Mother took me to our local GP. He instructed me to bend over and touch my toes, ran his finger down my spine, and announced it was perfectly straight and it was due to a nurotic grandmother Thankfully my mother asked for a second opinion and it was discovered I had, infact, got a 45 degree curvature that needed immediate surgery. I was very lucky as I had my operation, fusion of the vertibrae with bone from my hip and a telescopic rod inserted as a splint alongside my spine, in The Woodlands hospital in Birmingham. Scoliosis, if found early enough, can be helped successfully. I am now 34, and have a 14 year old daughter, and 11 year old twins, who were all born naturally and with no issues concerning my back. I cannot stress the importance of bringing mandatory testing into all schools, as early detection of scoliosis means succesful cures
25 May 08 | Deborah Harries
We discovered my 12 year old daughter has scoliosis in Feb 2008. I had never even heard of it and I think that making parents aware of the condition is as important as routine checks in schools. Had I been checking her back from an early age it may never have got to this point 54 degree curve with 2 years of growing to go Fortunately she has no problems at the moment, her posture is good through dancing so it is not too evident, and I feel the NHS has so far been good and quite quick in treating her a back brace for now but surgery for sure in 612 months. OK, so if we had found it earlier the outcome might have been exactly the same, but we will never know and it would be nice for people to be confident that they have done as much as they can to prevent the worst outcome.
25 May 08 | Ellie Parkin
I have Scoliosis and i am having treatment now but only because my dance teacher noticed. I am having to wear a brace, and so hopefully this will help my spine.
25 May 08 | Trudy Jane Ellison
I was treated for scoliosis when I was 13 years old Iam now 42 I had corrective surgery was in a plaster cast for 8months. After reading Gillians article in the Mail on Sunday it struck a very personal cord with me. A simple examination is all it takes, my mum new almost immediately why, when she brushed my long hair that my one side protruded more than the other as her sister has scoliosis a double curve that went untreated. I count my self as very very lucky to have received the treatment I did.....but and theres a big but...they treat the condition but not how it effects you as a person ie emotionally. I carry my metal rod around all day, and also the burden of my self image. I hope that by adding my name to your petition it might help to introduce a simple test in school.
25 May 08 | Joanne Woodward
My daughter kirsty was diagnosed with scoliosis three years ago. She is eight years old and now wears a boston brace for between 1822 hours a day. Kisty is a bright sociable little girl with a great appetite for life ans refuses to let her condition limit her. She loves swimming and has her name down to join life guards in the near future. She is also a member of Stagecoach and has just been awarded her silver medal. I am grateful that her diagnosis was caught early as kirsty has a chance to lead a normal fulfilling life as an adult. Although she occassionally becomes frustrared with her brace particularily in the summer and an operation may be necessary in her adolesence, its a small price to pay if it prevants serious medical problems in her adult hood. This is why i am behind the campaign to test for scoliosis in schools and to raise awareness about scoliosis.
25 May 08 | Liz Thomson
If checks had been more thorough 40 years ago my sister wouldnt be suffering so much now. If this condition can be recognised early enough there is always the chance that help can be provided.
25 May 08 | Glynis Terry
I was also found to have a curved spine rounded shoulders at my school check up but nothing was ever done about it. I was promised exercises which never materialised...Sadly, I now have pain all the time from my kyphosis....
25 May 08 | Sally Couch
I have suffered since i was 16 years old with scoliosis. If only I had been checked earlier, i may not have suffered with severe pain and spasms for many years. I am so supportive to this petition.
25 May 08 | susan welander
my daughter jenifer was diagnosed this year at the age of 14, she had broken her leg and was on crutches unable to put weight on the leg.when going back at the end of the 8 weeks the doctor noticed she wasnt standing straight he immediately xrayed her and we were told she had a 20 curvature, we have half yearly check ups with an xray . no brace was mentioned and its not bad enough for an operation , although jen has trouble sleeping and doing some things especially carrying heavy items.she too manages to do without painkillers most of the time, but it is something she is always aware of and thinks people are staring at her . this is the bit that upsets us as parents most . peoples comments can be far more hurtful than the actual condition especially childrens cruel remarks .
25 May 08 | Tracey Owen
I had scoliosis as a child and corrective surgery.This is a image conscious society and I know the impact ,both physically and mentally,of being different from the norm.I have two daughters and worry they will have the condition and therefore support early intervention to reduce the need for surgical correction.
25 May 08 | Sandra Freeman
At 56, my scoliosis was never diagnosed and I have spent many years feeling totally embarassed by it and dressing to cover my curvature. If only someone had picked it up when I was young, it could have been corrected and I would not have suffered years of anguish. Good luck for the campaign. Sandra
25 May 08 | Elizabeth Parker
Outoftheblue my daughter was diagnosed aged 28, when seeing a consultant about a persistent knee problem She had taken ballet classes from 3 years old and was accepted by the Central School of Ballet, having passed a very rigorous physical assessment. So it was a shock to be told that she had scoliosis. Now, aged 35, she exercises as much as possible and has decided not to have surgery for the time being.
25 May 08 | MARTYN HOLLANDS
MY WIFE HAS SCOLIOSIS AND I KNOW THE DAMAGE IT CAN DO NOT JUST PHYSICALLY BUT MENTALLY TOO.
25 May 08 | Sarah VarneyBurch
25 May 08 | N Shah
24 May 08 | Johanna Reevell
I have scoliosis and it was detected too late at the age of 12 and therefore had to have surgery to straighten it. My rib cage is still deformed but I dont have any pain since the operation in 1985. Introducing testing in schools I think is a must as I could have avoided 2 major operations by wearing a brace.
24 May 08 | karen lawrence
good luck with your cause.
24 May 08 | Sarah Dawson
this is a fantastic idea and need not be costly. every effort should be made to introduce a test into our schools at an early age.
24 May 08 | Avril Macintosh
Good luck Emma. Youre a courages wee lassie x
24 May 08 | Sara Turner
24 May 08 | Julia Egan
My sister in laws mother, Barbara, has suffered for years due to uncorrected scoliosis. Seeing her in pain is heartbreaking.Growing up my best friend was diagnosed early and wore the backbrace, thankfully her life has not gone the same way as Barbaras.
24 May 08 | Lynne Appleyard
Well done Emma. This has to be a good thing
24 May 08 | Barbara Waddington
23 May 08 | Lynda Misiewicz
More needs to be done for the health of our countrys children but in Britain we seem to be doing less. This govenment needs to get its act sorted out charity begins at home, our children should not be a charity case.
23 May 08 | Beryl Reese
23 May 08 | Stefani Diehl
22 May 08 | Laurianne Spencer
I have school age children, everything we can catch early is a blessing. Please bring back the scoliosis testing into schools. I know of 2 people it helped whenI was a child. Thank you for putting the next generation first.
22 May 08 | Donna camilleri
I am Happy to put my name to any think that will help our children get tested .But i think we should not have to do petition to get thing done but than that england fior yoo .
22 May 08 | Erin McLoughlin
22 May 08 | JANET GATELY
Thank you Gillian and young Emma for bringing attention to this serious issue. Testing in schools along with some kind of guideline plan of action is essential. This bone deformity can wreak havoc with the body organs and really compromise health. Thats why a nutritional approach can also play a role in skeletal structure and pain management. There are a lot more people than we realise with this problem. They need to now speak out.
22 May 08 | carolyn mcauliffe
i have a cuz. that found out her junior year and tried to put a brace and she was still growing at that time she is 26 now yes i think they should check for it. carolyn mcauliffe
21 May 08 | bryony carney
Please support this campaign, early action is the key to save the children who may have it
21 May 08 | Vicky Ward
All the very best with your petition. This is something that should need a petition to get it sorted out.Vicky
21 May 08 | Selina Fullam
I heard a horror story about a young girl who had very advanced scoliosis and who was not bumped up the list by the Irish Health Service although I am sure NHS could have a similar story even though if she wasnt treated within a year she would have died. The Health Service was shamed into treating her by a businessman who offered to pay for whatever operation she needed to get on the road to recovery. Maybe if this test was available in schools things would never have gotten so bad for this girl.
21 May 08 | frances dodsworth
20 May 08 | becca marchant
19 May 08 | Ronald Gibson
I am pleased to sign Emmas petition, with the help of Gillian I am sure we can get the testing for scoliosis in schools and look after the future generation.
19 May 08 | Florence Gibson
Hope everyone signs this petition.We need the best for our children.
19 May 08 | Deborah Barber
My brother was tested in middle school in the USA, he was diagnosed and early intervention is the key
19 May 08 | christine williams
A member of my family was diagnosed too late dont make it the same for everyone else
19 May 08 | Laura Jeeves
This should really be made compulsory. For such a small amount of time and money needed, this could save many children from years of pain and problems.
19 May 08 | relton herron
This should be in all schools, it takes seconds to do
19 May 08 | Spencer Waite
I support this please take action
18 May 08 | Margaret salvona
17 May 08 | Megan Yeo
Great idea Emma its the best way to check if people have scoliosis.
16 May 08 | Christine Yeo
Please support this campaign. Scoliosis, if detected early, may avoid the need for surgery which in turn can reduce the mental trauma it causes. A test that takes a minute can save a lifetime of pain and suffering.
