Fused Friends & Flowers

3.5 weeks. That’s how long I was in the hospital following two consecutive spinal fusion surgeries. Scoliosis caused my spine to grow wildly into an S-shaped curve that was throwing my entire body out of alignment, leading to severe pain and deformities. Straightening it through surgery was my only recourse. I was 14 and lucky that my grandpa had a best friend who was a clown for Shriner’s circus. His recommendation got me into one of the best hospitals in the country for the life-and-body-altering experience. When I stood out of bed the day after the first procedure, I was almost 3 inches taller.

I often share my literal back story with new people right away, though the older I get, the more I try to contain that trauma narrative until at least the second hang. When I met my fellow fused friend Allie, who at the time was engaged to my favorite coworker ever, our relationship blossomed quickly and with good reason. Spinal fusion surgery is no joke* and creates an instant bond among the fused. There’s a mutual respect between us, a shared gratitude, and a deep empathy.

Back then, Allie was starting her career as a writer who also taught barre classes. I was so excited when she moved from barre to training in pilates to help people like us. (I would do reformer pilates constantly if I could afford it.) Allie is a naturally gifted teacher and took to her profession as a nationally certified pilates instructor with ease and grace. She so clearly loves what she does and has a rapidly growing, adoring fanbase. Seeing her succeed on this path has been a joy and an inspiration. When she texted me that she was planning to open HER OWN PILATES STUDIO, I was floored. Then, when she asked me to paint something cheerful that echoed our connection, I melted.

It took four tries to get it right, but seeing Allie’s face when I presented her final piece was everything. It showed me that I’m acting in alignment. Acknowledging and using my creative talents is a bit like straightening the curve. I’m gratefully standing tall.

Read more about the “He(ART)” in Allie’s new pilates studio in Franklin.

*”Understatement of the century.” - Allie Myszka