Adam Perez learned early on that he had scoliosis after a routine screening at school. However, shortly after he turned 16, the scoliosis had progressed enough that he needed surgery to correct the curvature in his spine. 

Adam and his family consulted with several programs before choosing to have his surgery at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital with Dr. Thomas Errico, pediatric spine surgeon.

Although recovery after surgery was tough for Adam, nearly a year later he is back to his regular, active self. In fact, he started taking mixed martial arts classes within 6 months of having surgery. 

His advice for other teens who may have to undergo scoliosis surgery is to stick through it.

“The journey may not be easy, but with the right support and mindset, you will get through it and feel better afterwards,” said Adam.