We recently connected with Aaliyah Wallace and have shared our conversation below.
Aaliyah, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
When I found out I had scoliosis at nine, it was scary. The word itself felt huge and unknown. But, instead of freaking out, I started digging into it with my family. My mom was my rock, always saying there are solutions to everything.
We dove into researching scoliosis together, trying to understand what was going on. It was like this puzzle we were figuring out. And in the process, I found hope, this feeling that we could beat it.
It wasn’t just about finding fixes; it changed how I saw things. Getting closer to God during this time was a game-changer. It brought this calm, like what’s mentioned in John 16:33 – about having peace even when things get tough.
That verse became my go-to, a reminder that, yeah, life throws stuff at you, but you can handle it. Dealing with scoliosis wasn’t just about being physically strong; it was about finding a strong mindset. This whole experience, as scary as it was, ended up making me tougher and showed me that even in hard times, you can find strength and peace to get through.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m Aaliyah Wallace, the inspiration behind Lee Lee the lead character in the newest Kelly and Kelso book. I’m a devoted member of the Kress FCCLA chapter and a passionate advocate for Scoliosis Awareness. Fearlessly, I share my journey of strength and faith in God with students, aspiring to become an Orthopedic Surgeon to support children on their scoliosis journeys. My hometown mayor recognizes December 20th as “Aaliyah Wallace Day” and “Scoliosis Awareness Day,” dedicated to inspiring others to pursue their dreams despite physical limitations.
My guiding principle is to lean on the Lord, trusting that He will direct my path. Influenced by my great Uncle Kelly Owen Burk, inspiration for the Kelly and Kelso book series, I fondly recall perfecting his coffee and sharing movie nights. The endearing term “ladybug,” given by my Mema since birth, holds deep significance in my heart. Driven by my personal journey and fueled by compassion, I aspire not only to heal as an Orthopedic Surgeon but also to inspire others to embrace their dreams. Through advocacy, celebration days, and unwavering faith, I endeavor to make the world a place filled with resilience, hope, and support for those facing challenges.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My journey’s been shaped by three major things that really hit home for me. First off, it’s my rock-solid faith in God. Trusting that there’s a plan, and every twist and turn is somehow part of a bigger picture. It’s what keeps me going, reminding me that every little thing contributes to something greater.
Then there’s the family vibe – especially my grandparents. They lived out this seriously godly lifestyle, and my Mema? She’s been my go-to prayer warrior through thick and thin. Their influence is like a constant guide, showing me how faith plays out in real life and helping me tackle whatever life throws my way.
Next up, it’s the fierce support from my family, especially my mom and sister. They’re not just there; they’re all in. Doctor appointments? They’re on it. Figuring out the whole scoliosis thing? They’re practically experts. And yeah, convincing me to wear that back brace, even on the days when I’m over it – that’s love. It’s a reminder that family is where you find some of your strongest allies.
And then there’s this whole advocacy gig. Speaking up at schools, sharing my story – that’s my thing. Now, I’m pumped about dropping my own book to take it to the next level. Teaming up with Kelly and Kelso has been a game-changer, giving me a platform to be heard. The goal? To let others facing tough diagnoses know they’re not alone. Because stories? They’re like these bridges connecting us through the ups and downs.
So, yeah, that’s my journey – faith, family, and a whole lot of speaking my truth. It’s about turning challenges into opportunities to inspire and connect.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
Living with a curved spine has been a big part of my life for more than half of it. Some physical activities, like casually bending over, became difficult due to this. However, this limitation led me to find joy and fulfillment in reading.
I was worried that scoliosis might prevent me from being the school mascot. The physical demands seemed tough, but with support from my doctors, I found a way to continue being the mascot.
At fifteen, I said goodbye to the brace I wore for years. While it was a relief, it brought new responsibilities. I had to be mindful of my weight and do exercises recommended by my medical team to prevent back pain.
In short, my journey with scoliosis has been about adapting, being resilient, and getting guidance from healthcare professionals. Despite the challenges, I’ve not only faced them but also found ways to thrive and pursue my passions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kellyandkelso.com/leelee
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088715180921&mibextid=LQQJ4d
