Some of us create our amazing differences while others are born with theirs. Sophomore Abigail Walling was born with Scoliosis, and it has had a big impact on her life.

“It affects me daily because I go through pain when I walk too much or when I sit down too long,” Walling said. “Some days it’s excruciating pain; therefore, I can’t do regular activities like other kids.”

Walling said that people treat her differently when they find out she has Scoliosis.

“They act like I can’t do anything, but the truth is when I’m not in that much pain, I can do most things that they can,” Walling said.

Walling has had seven surgeries and they usually consist of taking a rod out and putting a new one in. One involved fusing her spinal cord. With the exception of one three month absence from school in sixth grade, Walling said the surgeries usually don’t affect her education. While living with Scoliosis create challenges, Walling said she is more thankful for her life because of her many “blessings.”

 “I stay positive because this is a part of who I am,” Walling said. “[I sometimes] I get made fun of because of my spine. I don’t like it, but then I think to myself that they have no idea what I’ve been through. That makes me stronger.”