TS Might Not be Easy, But it's LIfe-Changing! - by Taylor Yates

My name is Taylor and I’m 24 years old. I’m from Rockton, Illinois, but I recently moved to Naples, Florida in October and I’m loving it here so far! I was diagnosed with Turner syndrome (TS) before I was even born. I was just 5 pounds at birth. My name came to be Taylor Olivia, which makes my initials “TOY” - because my parents knew I was going to be small. I’m grateful to have a name related to having TS.

When my parents first heard of Turner syndrome, they didn’t know what to do or how to take care of me. So, they had to go through counseling for help. Today, here I am living life, my family are the best supporters I could ever have!

I started growth hormone when I was about 2 and was on it until I was 14 years old. Now I’m currently on hormone replacement. I do struggle with infertility, but I’m hoping someday I can adopt a child. I was developmentally delayed. I had to do periods of time with occupational therapy and speech therapy. It takes me longer to learn things than most others, but that’s okay. Sometimes I struggle with it because I wish I could do things like others, like driving a car, for example.

I am hearing impaired (mild hearing loss). I currently wear hearing aids and have been wearing them since 1st grade. I’ve been through a multiple of ear tubes as well. With having TS, I also have what’s called a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), where the aortic valve only has two leaflets instead of three. The aortic valve regulates blood flow from the heart into the aorta. The aorta is the major blood vessel that brings oxygen-rich blood to the body. I get monitored very well and will eventually have to get a heart transplant.

Having TS has led me to do some great experiences! I attended two camps over the years, and I’ve also attended some of the TSSUS National Turner Syndrome Conferences. I loved going to these events. I made such good friends by going to these, and they are recommended by me. It’s such a fun learning experience and I love making these memories!

A few more things about me: I love doing makeup, traveling, and I’m a music junky – especially Ariana Grande! Sometimes I want to be influenced by her! I just want to say a huge thank you to my friend’s family, and teachers that I have/had in the past in my life. They are my biggest supporters. They’ve been here with me through my journey, and I couldn’t be more thankful! Having TS may not be the easiest thing and we all have our up and down days, but it’s also life changing. It’s a learning experience and know that you are A MIRACLE!