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My Story

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My Story

My name is Rowan Fitzsimmons

and I’m fourteen. I became a patient at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children (TSRHC) when I was four.

When I was living in Birmingham, AL, my doctor checked my back and noticed my spine was curved. It was then that I heard the word “scoliosis”.

When we moved to Dallas, my doctor here referred my family to TSRHC. I went in for an MRI and they measured my curve close to 47%. It was considered a severe case and I was immediately put into a body cast. I had 3 body casts each lasting 6 weeks. After my last cast, I was put into my first brace. I’m now in my 8th brace and my curve has been corrected to 23%. By being in the brace I was able to avoid rods and many surgeries. Being a patient at TSHRC has been a blessing for my family and especially me. They help so many kids! Without their help, my spine would have continued to curve, possibly affecting my lungs and ribs.

With the support of my family and friends, I started “Crawfish for the Curve” to help my hospital help other kids. There are so many kids who have problems that are worse than mine. Every dollar donated of the $72,500 total raised puts a smile on a kid’s face. I know because I’ve been one of those kids.