Sara Davin, PsyD
Kristina Friess
Kristina’s journey to becoming a Spinal Champion began not with pain, but with a fall. In May 2024, while walking to lunch with coworkers to honor a late friend, she tripped on uneven concrete and struck her head. What seemed like a minor accident led to an emergency room visit and a scan that revealed
Meredith Montana
At just 11 years old, Meredith’s life changed when a routine checkup revealed scoliosis—a 19-degree curve in her thoracic spine. A lifelong ballet dancer, she had poured her passion into the art since age four, captivated by the movement, the emotion, and the twirling skirts. But what began as a mild diagnosis quickly escalated during
Stella Kinander
At just 14, Stella’s life took an unexpected turn when a routine physical revealed early signs of scoliosis. An accomplished gymnast and varsity cheerleader, Stella had always pushed her body to perform—until her spinal curves progressed and the pain became impossible to ignore. Two years later, her curves had severely progressed and her daily routine
Alexandra Bruce
Alexandra is the Project Manager at the National Spine Health Foundation, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing the Foundation’s mission to educate the lives of those affected by spinal conditions. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for effective collaboration, Alexandra ensures that projects are executed seamlessly and that organizational goals
Roger Härtl, MD
Roger Härtl, MD, is the Hansen-MacDonald Professor of Neurological Surgery as well as Neurosurgical Director at Och Spine at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Härtl’s clinical interest focuses on simple and complex spine surgery for degenerative conditions, tumors, and sports injuries as well as biological approaches for disc repair and regeneration. He is a
Wilson Zachary Ray, MD
Lora Giangregorio
Henry Drury
Henry Drury, of Wesley Chapel, Florida, is the definition of grit and determination. A former two-time national figure skating champion in Great Britain, Henry once dreamed of representing his country at the Winter Olympics. Alongside his sister, he dedicated his early life to training—up to eight hours a day—with his sights set on Olympic glory.
Bryan K. Lawson, MD
Michelle Jose
Michelle is the Graphic and Web Designer at the National Spine Health Foundation. She creates compelling visual assets including educational materials, campaigns, and digital content to enhance our brand and increase awareness in support of the foundation’s mission to improve spinal healthcare through research, education, and advocacy. Prior to joining NSHF, Michelle worked across fintech,
Kate Conklin
Kate’s journey with spinal injury began at just 20 years old, an unexpected challenge for a lifelong athlete. As a competitive swimmer and ballet dancer, she had built her identity around movement and strength. But in April 2023, after a routine Pilates class, Kate’s life changed in an instant. A sudden and severe disc herniation