In this episode of the Get Back To It Podcast, we hear the inspiring journey of 14-year-old athlete Maeve Danaher from Chicago, Illinois. A dedicated competitive swimmer, Maeve’s life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with double scoliosis — one curve measuring 70 degrees and another at 60. Facing a 10-hour spinal fusion surgery, Maeve’s determination and courage were tested in ways she never imagined.

Maeve opens up about the emotional toll of preparing for major surgery, the challenges of losing independence, and the long road to recovery marked by pain, patience, and perseverance. With the unwavering support of her parents, medical team, and friends, she learned to walk again just a day after surgery and gradually rebuilt her strength.

Cleared to return to competitive swimming less than a year later, Maeve’s story is one of resilience, positivity, and youthful optimism. Her journey reminds us that recovery is not only about physical healing, but also about mental strength and hope — showing that even after life-changing surgery, it’s possible to dive back in and keep swimming toward your dreams.

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In this episode of the Get Back To It Podcast, we hear the remarkable story of Dawn Lissy, a biomedical engineer in the spine industry who found herself on the other side of care as a patient. After decades of helping others through spinal implant design and testing, Dawn was faced with her own diagnosis of degenerative spine conditions. She shares her deeply personal journey of navigating pain, undergoing treatments like physical therapy, a discectomy, and injections, and making lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and restore quality of life. Dawn’s experience highlights the emotional and physical challenges of living with ongoing pain, the importance of perseverance, and the power of advocating for yourself on the road to recovery.

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Years of chronic pain led Daniel Ramia to multiple surgeries, countless therapies, and ultimately, a life-changing spinal reconstruction. Diagnosed with multilevel degenerative disc disease, Daniel endured five years of debilitating spasms and setbacks before finding the right team and the right solution. Now, he’s back to gardening, biking, and living fully again. His story shows that with perseverance and self-advocacy, hope is always possible.

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A simple fall revealed something life-threatening, a spinal tumor she didn’t even know she had. What followed was an 11.5-hour surgery, months of rehab, and a community that never left her side; she fought her way back to independence. Now walking, working, and full of gratitude, she calls herself “the luckiest woman on earth.” Hear how one unexpected fall transformed her life forever.

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At just 11 years old, a young dancer was diagnosed with scoliosis—a condition that progressed rapidly, eventually requiring a 15-level spinal fusion. In this inspiring episode, she shares her journey through bracing and the challenges of adolescence, all while holding onto her dream of dancing. Hear how she reclaimed her strength, rediscovered her rhythm, and now performs on some of the world’s biggest stages—with rods in her spine and resilience in her heart.

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A high school athlete faced an unexpected diagnosis—rapidly progressing scoliosis that threatened the life she loved. From intense bracing to spinal fusion surgery, she endured months of pain, setbacks, and sacrifice. But through it all, she found strength she didn’t know she had. Now six months post-op, she’s back on her feet and discovering new passions beyond the cheer mat. Tune in to hear how this remarkable teen turned a life-changing challenge into a story of triumph and hope.

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A young athlete faced the unthinkable—a spinal injury that left her immobile. But with expert care and determination, she not only regained her mobility but also found a new purpose in helping others. Now, as a medical assistant and aspiring physician assistant, she inspires patients facing similar challenges. Tune in to hear her powerful story!

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On this episode of Get Back to It, we’re sharing the inspiring journey of a lifelong fighter who refused to let scoliosis define her. After years of pushing through pain and limitations, she made the life-changing decision to undergo reconstructive surgery—and it transformed her world. Now, she’s back to doing what she loves, from skiing to keeping up with her grandkids! Tune in to hear her powerful story of resilience, recovery, and finally standing tall—literally and figuratively.

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