Spoonie Stories: Mikayla Broussard
I have never been a stranger to pain. I was born with hip dysplasia and have HSD, which affected me through my entire childhood. My biggest journey, however, started when I was 16.
At the time, I had been dancing for 11 years and was at a summer training intensive. During a technique class, I tore a ligament in my right hip, connected to my hip dysplasia. This injury caused me to develop CRPS in my right leg. I didn’t walk for nearly 6 months and didn’t dance for 9 months.
I’ve worked extensively with the pain management and complex care program at Texas Children’s to regain my mobility. It’s extremely taxing living with a dynamic disability as a teenager, and I’ve unfortunately missed out on a lot. I don’t let it stop me, though. I recently got into my dream college and was accepted as a Dance Hope Cure Ambassador for childhood cancer awareness! I am learning to live regardless of my chronic illness, not despite.
Tell us about yourself:I’ve been a dancer since I was 5, and I also have a huge passion for all things music. I performed in my first musical at the age of 7 and my first professional show at 9. I play four instruments as well! I’m also a lover of writing and hope to publish a book one day!
Why did you share your spoonie story?During my journey with CRPS, I’ve often felt like I was the only one experiencing this. Through tiktok, I’ve found a few incredible friends who understand what I’m going through. I hope sharing my story gives a vice to the voiceless.
Follow Mikayla’s journey on Instagram: @mikbroussard and TikTok: @mikfightscrps
Disclaimer: This is simply the story of Mikayla’s personal experiences with chronic illnesses. This blog is not to be taken as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, always seek the help of a doctor or licensed medical professional.
If you would like to submit your story to be featured in our new Spoonie Stories series, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page. We would love to share your Spoonie Story!