For Briar, the journey with scoliosis began in high school, when persistent back pain led her mum to book an X-ray. “At the time, I felt confused,” she recalls. “I didn’t know much about scoliosis — and to be honest, I still don’t know a lot.” That moment began a path filled with challenges — physical, emotional, and deeply personal.
Living with scoliosis meant facing chronic pain and the emotional toll of self-doubt. “There were days where it was really rough,” she shares. “I lacked confidence and kept thinking, what the heck is wrong with me?”
As a passionate athlete growing up, she worried her diagnosis might limit her performance. But sport became both her refuge and her strength. “I’d often forget I even had scoliosis because I wanted to play so badly. I’d push through - until the pain reminded me again.”
Despite the obstacles, Briar has accomplished extraordinary things: representing New Zealand internationally as Miss Cosmopolitan World 2023, competing in CrossFit competitions, and nearly completing her Bachelor in Sport and Recreation, majoring in PE and Health.
Much of her resilience comes from the support of her mum, who stood beside her through every scan, every question mark, and every tough moment. “She helped me through it all,” she says gratefully.
Over time, she found strength in small, consistent acts of self-care: physiotherapy, stretching, and especially, positive self-talk. “It helped me shift my mindset. I’ve learned to focus on what my body can do instead of what it can’t. My posture might still be a work in progress, but I know now that confidence and self-worth come from within.”
To anyone recently diagnosed with scoliosis, her message is clear: educate yourself, stay active, and seek support. “You’re not alone,” she says. “This doesn’t define you, it’s just one part of your story.”
And to those struggling with body image, her words carry weight: “Your worth is not defined by your appearance. There is so much beauty in strength, in growth, and in what your body allows you to do every day.”
