❤You Are Not Alone❤
Your community is here with you!
SAVE THE DATE
June 24, 2026
TIME
5:00pm – 6:00pm pst
June is a special month for us as we celebrate Scoliosis Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, connection, and empowerment. At Setting Scoliosis Straight, we believe that open communication and shared understanding between patients, families, and healthcare professionals are essential in helping individuals make confident, informed decisions about their scoliosis care.
To honor this mission, we’re hosting a powerful webinar featuring patients from across the country who will share their personal stories and insights on navigating scoliosis. Thress of our renowned surgeons will also provide evidence‑based updates on today’s leading treatment options. This event offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from patients who have experienced a range of treatments—and to learn from experts who are shaping the future of scoliosis care.
Join us as we raise awareness, build community, and remind every patient and family that you are not alone.
Topics Include:
- Understanding Scoliosis Surgery: A Quick Guide to the Differences Between Spinal Fusion and Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) – Presented by Salil Upasani, MD
- Understanding Bracing: The Latest Updates in Bracing and Non-Operative Treatments, Including Schroth Therapy – Presented by Ben Roye, MD
- Spinal Fusion Patient Story: A Personal Journey Through Scoliosis Surgery and Recovery – Presented by June Baker
- VBT: An Alternative Path — A Story of Hope Through Vertebral Body Tethering – Presented by Simrena Atwal
- Bracing Patient Story: Making a Difference Through Awareness and Community Outreach – Presented by Ashlyn & Amy Cordes with Setting Scoliosis Straight at Manalapan High School
- Bracing Patient Story: An Inspiring Journey of Resilience, Advocacy, and Giving Back to the Scoliosis Community -Presented by Marta & Corrina Miller at MEMF
Co-Moderators & Speakers
Salil Upasani, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon from Rady Children’s Hospital, CA
Daniel Hoernschemeye, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon at University of Missouri Health Care
Ben Royes, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon at Columbia University, New York
Guest Patient Speakers
June & Evelyn Baker
Spinal Fusion Patient
June was diagnosed with scoliosis at 12, and what began as a mild curve quickly progressed, leading to major spinal fusion surgery at just 13. Her recovery was long and incredibly painful, but through determination and hard work, she returned to competitive dance only four months later—ultimately winning national and world titles with her team.
Today, she shares her story alongside her mother to remind other patients that even the hardest battles can lead to extraordinary strength.
Simrena Atwal
VBT Patient
Simrena was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was 11 years old. Her journey often felt like a rollercoaster she never asked to ride, but despite every challenge, she refused to give up and kept pushing forward. Scoliosis may have knocked her down, but it never kept her there.
Join us to hear Simrena’s full story—how she navigated her scoliosis journey and the meaningful ways she’s now giving back to the community.
Ashlyn & Amy Cordes
Bracing Patient
Ashlyn was diagnosed with scoliosis in 2021 and wore a brace for more than three years. Despite the challenges that came with bracing, she never gave up—and even continued competing in dance. What began as fear and frustration transformed into strength, resilience, and a deep desire to give back to the community.
Don’t miss Ashlyn and her mother Amy inspiring story.
Corrina & Marta Miller
Bracing Patient
Marta was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was just 10 years old. After many years of bracing treatment, she overcame countless challenges and continued to pursue her passion for ice dancing and figure skating with U.S. Figure Skating. She also founded her own nonprofit, the Marta Eliza Miller Foundation (MEMF), to help raise funds in support of scoliosis research. Most recently, she became an Ambassador for SSS, continuing her mission to uplift and empower others in the scoliosis community.