Inspired by her own journey with scoliosis, 11th grader Loona Lovelace from Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA) is channeling her experience with the condition into competition at the Future Health Professionals (HOSA) State Leadership Conference this month.

Lovelace, a resident of Wewoka, and three classmates will present their digital portfolio on scoliosis, including its causes, symptoms and treatments at the state conference April 14-16 in Norman. Top competitors in the Health Education division will advance to nationals June 18-21 in Nashville, Tenn.

Scoliosis, or a sideways curvature of the spine, affects an estimated 2 to 3 percent of the U.S. population and can range in symptoms from mild, requiring no treatment, to severe, requiring a brace or surgery. Lovelace was diagnosed with scoliosis at 3 months old and manages her condition with physical therapy.

Her experience with scoliosis is also leading her toward a career in pediatric health care. She completed testing for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program in March; once certified, Lovelace looks forward to getting to work — perhaps even before she graduates high school.

“Since I’m able to do schoolwork at non-traditional times, I have more options to work during the day,” Lovelace said. “I’ve always loved helping people. In one or two months, I could be applying for CNA jobs.”