My scoliosis (curvature of the spine) was identified when I was 5 years old through a test at school. When I was 15 I had a 9" steel rod inserted into my spine to correct it, during a 5-hour operation at Addenbrookes hospital in Cambridge. I remained in hospital for several weeks and wore a plaster back brace for 6 weeks then a plastic one for 6 months, only removing it at night. Before the operation I was 5 foot 5 and afterwards, when straightened, 5 foot 7"!
I'm so glad I had the operation as it corrected the curve a lot but I have still suffered back pain all my life, exacerbated when standing/sitting for long periods. There are some activities I can't do as they might jolt the rod such as judo or horse riding.
But I have never let my scoliosis hold me back in life. I recently ran a half marathon, the Great East Run, and I became a This Girl Can Suffolk ambassador in November 2020 ❤️ I am an advocate for physical activity within my community via my social media posts, trying to inspire and support other women to be physically active.
I've walked 600 miles for #MilesForMind with 5 other friends, go wild swimming and manage a group called the Shingle Street Bluetits, an outdoor swimming group
I moved to Hollesley, near Woodbridge, a year and a half ago and am lucky enough to live near the forest and beach. My friends and I regularly go for 6-mile walks at 6am and catch up as well as exercise. I love getting outside now and do it every day. We are going to climb Mount Snowdon together this year!
I also love stand up paddleboarding and walking the dogs with my children and husband.
You can read more about my fitness journey and outdoor adventures in Suffolk as I post on social media: @natashastarseeker (Instagram) or my blog: www.natashasoneseditorial.com/blog and hopefully I will inspire others to get active.