Book: The Triumphs of Scoliosis by Kimberly Ann Cunanan Garza

"Never give up. With hard work, patience and persistence, great rewards will come.” I have always kept these words close to my heart, especially when I was diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis at age eleven. 

For six years, I wore a Boston back brace to treat my spine. Treatment was not easy; the brace would put pressure on my ribs and hips and give me cuts. Despite these challenges, I used the pain as my strength and motivation to complete treatment and do well in school.  

Thankfully, my treatment was successful, and my curvature went down by half. My focus on school and extracurricular activities also allowed me to accomplish my goal of being accepted into medical school. 

It has now been about five years since I completed treatment, and I have taken every opportunity to advocate scoliosis awareness in the community. Recently, I published a chapter book and picture book titled The Triumphs of Scoliosis. The books describe my experiences with scoliosis through the lens of a fictionalized main character, Kimita.

Here’s an excerpt from my chapter book: 

Throughout my treatment for scoliosis, I noticed how much my doctors cared for me, and they did so much for my spine to become straighter. Just like my doctors, I wanted to serve other people and be the helping hand when it is most needed.  

Because of my experiences as a patient, I am inspired to become a doctor, and I have persevered and continue to work hard every day toward accomplishing this dream.

As a future physician, I am not only motivated to treat individuals, I am also inspired to utilize my experiences with scoliosis to practice early detection of scoliosis and to continue spreading awareness of scoliosis in the community and abroad.  

“Why me?” was the question I had in my mind throughout my treatment for scoliosis. 

Now that my treatment is complete, I am proud to say “That’s me.” 

Through my books, I hope to educate the community about scoliosis and to inspire others to work hard toward their dreams. 

The Triumphs of Scoliosis chapter and picture book is available as a print copy and e-book in the Blurb bookstore. If you would like to purchase, please visit the links below.

Chapter Book: https://www.blurb.com/b/9868113-the-triumphs-of-scoliosis
Picture Book: https://www.blurb.com/b/10205666-the-triumphs-of-scoliosis-picture-book