My first radio interview for the series and I was really hoping it would go well. Given my objectives, a representative from the Scoliosis Association UK (SAUK) seemed a good place to start. I had arranged to speak with Natalie Cooper, their Communications Officer, to find out more about the support the charity offers scoliosis patients and parents.
It was always going to be a telephone interview as SAUK do not accept visitors at their London headquarters. My plan was to use one of the radio studios on campus. However, when the day arrived, I was self-isolating due to an outbreak of Covid-19 in my student house-share.
Although a set-back I wanted the audio to be as high quality as possible. Some online research later and taking advice from fellow students, I found an appropriate way.
I wedged my iPhone between two books upside down with the speaker facing up. I borrowed a housemate’s iPad, plugging headphones into it and hovering the microphone of the headphones over the speaker of my iPhone. All that was left was to call Natalie, put my phone on speaker and hit record on Voice Memos on the iPad. One distraction was keeping a steady hand on the microphone throughout the interview.
I had a long list of prepared questions and Natalie was hugely helpful and generous with her time. We spoke for almost 45 minutes ranging through so many aspects of the condition, the support the charity provides and the broadcast I want to make. As they say, it is good to talk.
SAUK can be the first point of contact for parents after receiving a diagnosis. She emphasised the importance for parents to know ‘You are not alone’.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by scoliosis visit Scoliosis Association UK or call their helpline on 0208 964 1166 for support and advice.
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