top of page

My Life Is Extremely Rich and Full! - by Alexa O'Brien


My name is Alexa "Ally" O'Brien. I was diagnosed with Turner syndrome (TS) while in utero from genetic testing. My parents were fortunately given nothing but encouragement. From birth, I was monitored closely. I had a small heart defect, which I am still seeing a cardiologist biannually for. I endured years of growth hormone therapy and then transitioned to estrogen and progesterone therapy.


TS has altered my life in terms of how I will have children. I live a remarkably normal life. In terms of my education, I was always a bright student, especially in English and history classes. I was given some special help in school as a kindergartner, but it quickly became apparent that I didn’t need special services, just some physical accommodations due to the fact that I was born with a severe hip injury.


I have struggles with nonverbal learning disorder (NLD), which basically means I have trouble with spatial awareness, which is common in girls with TS. The major way this affects my life is that I can't drive YET. I also suffered from anxiety from a very young age and finally went on medication for it in my twenties. Now my mental health is better than ever.


I graduated in the top 25% of my high school class and went on to graduate cum laude from my state college. I am now a substitute teacher and tutor who is hoping to go on to be an English teacher soon in a local middle or high school. I have worked in theater since I was 7 years old, and have even performed with Broadway actors! I am very sensitive and great with children and have even been a nanny for a celebrity.


My life is extremely rich and full. I have amazing friends. My hope is that any parents facing their child’s diagnosis will understand that they can live a completely normal and independent life.

Featured Posts
No posts published in this language yet
Once posts are published, you’ll see them here.
Recent Posts
Follow Us
  • Facebook Basic Square
  • Twitter Basic Square
  • Google+ Basic Square
TSSUS Logo

The Turner Syndrome Society's mission is to advance knowledge, facilitate research, and support all those touched by Turner syndrome.

Charity Navigator
NORD_MembershipLogo_PLAT_2025 B.png
  • Facebook
  • X
  • YouTube
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
12620 FM 1960 W Rd, Suite A4 #210 Houston, TX 77065, 1-800-365-9944

501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

 EIN is 41-1596910. 

2024 All Rights Reserved

Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.

bottom of page