Pregnant Princess Eugenie has plenty on her plate as her due date approaches in the coming months, but she’s still managing to inspire the masses.
Earlier this week, a new anecdote about the British royal emerged that’s given and extra bit of hope to fans and followers – and for a good reason.
The Princess’ battle with scoliosis is common knowledge to anyone who’s been following Eugenie and her famous family for years now.
At age 12, Princess Eugenie was diagnosed with scoliosis (curvature of the spine) and was told that she needed corrective surgery.
The scar she attained from the surgery and subsequent recovery is something the royal is extremely proud of – so much so that she uses it to give hope to others who might also be suffering from something similar.
Eugenie has spent years normalising the condition so that other sufferers don’t have to feel alone.
(Instagram)In a new report from The Daily Mail, the story of young dancer Poppy Gerrard, 18, and her experience with the Princess is a prime example.
Speaking to the publication, Poppy explained that she and her dance partner Julia Carlile were invited to afternoon tea with Eugenie after she saw them perform on Britain’s Got Talent back in 2017.
“I will never forget that day,” Poppy said.
“It was just like we were talking to a friend.”
Eugenie spoke candidly of her experience with scoliosis during the private afternoon tea.
(Instagram)The dancer continued to explain how personal the Princess had been with them, even showing them her scar in person.
“She told us about her scoliosis journey and what she had been through with her operations.
“At one point she unzipped her dress and showed us her scar. It gave me goosebumps that a princess was so proud of her imperfections and that she was prepared to share something like that with us.”
The Princess was diagnosed with the condition at age 12.
(Getty)Eugenie remained in touch with Poppy and her dancing troop, even inviting them to her 2018 wedding with Jack Brooksbank.
This was an occasion made all the more special as the Princess had her wedding dress designed especially to show her scoliosis scar, which runs down her back.
Indeed the gorgeous Peter Pilotto design featured an off-shoulder silhouette which dipped at the back.
Eugenie worked with designers especially to create the beautiful garment in this way.
Princess Eugenie’s 2018 wedding dress was designed specifically to show her scar.
(Getty)Eugenie has since advocated for people suffering from scoliosis, often inviting her followers on Instagram to show off their scars and be proud of them.
On International Scoliosis Awareness Day in 2020, the Princess took to the platform to share her own image.
“I just wanted to share my scar and encourage anyone out there who’s gone through something similar to share theirs with me. Let’s be proud of our scars! I’d love to repost any of your images on my stories so please tag me and I will share.”
Eugenie showed off her scoliosis scar, inviting her followers to do the same.
(Instagram)
