With scoliosis, the spine not only curves from side to side, it also rotates. Rotation of the spine distorts the rib cage which can cause an inefficient and debilitating use of lung, heart and circulatory space. Even though my curves were probably not going to progress any further after 20 years of age, I still needed surgery to prevent damage to my thoracic organs.
In the East building at MassArt there is an ancient looking spiral staircase kept behind a disgusting cage. From the moment I first saw that staircase in 2003, I made an instant attachment to it. It haunted my thoughts for years—I needed to do something with it.