In March 2023, I will take on a tough trek to Machu Picchu, Peru, to raise money for the Scoliosis Association UK.
When I was 14, I was diagnosed with severe scoliosis, and in my case, it was severe enough that I had to undergo spinal fusion surgery in 2010.
My spine is now held in place with two titanium rods and over 20 titanium screws, and although my spine is straighter than before, I now cant bend the fused parts of my back (T3-L3).
It took me years to recover from the surgery, I had to learn the basics again like how to walk again with my new spine, and I struggled with simple things like sitting up in bed and taking a shower. I went through a lot of physio and rehabilitation to get to where I am now. It was a painful and long recovery but the surgery has been life-changing.
Why Machu Picchu?
Back in 2020, when I was 10 years post scoliosis surgery, I wanted to mark the occasion by raising awareness and money for the Scoliosis Association UK, an amazing charity that supports people with scoliosis and their families.
I decided that I wanted to run my first marathon and complete a trek to Machu Picchu, whilst raising money for the Scoliosis Association UK in the process.
My aim with these challenges has always been to push myself and inspire others with scoliosis, but also to raise awareness of the condition, as although very common, it is still relatively unknown.
The pandemic meant that my challenges were postponed, however, I completed the Manchseter marathon in April 2022, which I’m incredibly proud of.
My Machu Picchu challenge is now in March and will involve…
- Trekking an average of 6-8 hours a day for 5 days on steep terrain
- Trekking at high altitude (4600m above sea level) where the air is thin and it’s difficult to breathe
- Trekking through remote areas where facilities are basic
- Camping overnight in between treks
I’m excited but terrified! I don’t really know what to expect or if I can even do a challenge of this scale.
I’ve been training by going out on long hikes every weekend around the Peak District and North Wales. It’s been tough as it’s winter and the weather has been freezing and wet. I also run twice a week and do parkrun most Saturdays. I want to make sure I give myself the best possible chance at completing this challenge, although I am nervous about the altitude and how my body will cope with that.
Going through something like scoliosis surgery makes you really appreciate life and I still find it hard to believe all the things I’ve achieved since my surgery. It’s truly amazing what the human body is capable of.
So far, I have raised over £3,000 for the Scoliosis Association UK, and I’m so proud of myself. You can donate to my fundraiser below or follow my journey on YouTube and Instagram.
Louise Laurie
Links:
My blog: https://lifewithscoliosis.com
My YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeWithScoliosis
My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithscoliosisblog/
My fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lifewithscoliosisblog