I Use TS as a Tool to Teach Empathy - by Maryann Shilo

My name is Maryann Shilo and I was diagnosed with classic Turner Syndrome (TS) at age 16. Before then, I always knew that I was different. It was a relief for me to finally understand my short stature. The Turner Syndrome community showed me that I was not alone.

I recently graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California with my Bachelor of Arts in education and my teaching credential. I am now a 6th grade teacher. I refused to let being different or other peoples’ perceptions stop me from achieving my goals. After all that I have learned through my journey with TS, I chose to become an educator to have a positive impact on young people. I educate my students on Turner Syndrome and use it as a tool to teach empathy. We butterflies are capable of anything!