Turner Syndrome Can’t Stop My Dreams - by Nikki Maier

Ever since I was a little girl, I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up. I wanted to be a nurse, and above all, I wanted to be a mom. All of this changed when at 14, I was diagnosed with Turner syndrome. When I found out I would not be able to have biological children as a result, my world was turned upside down.

I struggled with the idea of being “different” from my peers, but also the uncertainty of what my future would look like, and if I would ever be able to have a family. My self-esteem was also impacted.

I struggled in school due to the non-verbal learning disabilities, especially in math and science. This made my dream of becoming a nurse seem out of reach as well. But for me, there was no plan B. No matter how many setbacks, failed tests, or classes I had to retake, I kept working towards my goal, one step at a time. I finally reached my goal of being a registered nurse and eventually, a nurse practitioner.

Shortly after, I met and married my husband. We decided to undergo IVF using donor eggs to build our family. Though the process was difficult and not without risk, I was able to get pregnant. In December of 2014 our prayers were answered, and I had out miracle daughter, Ella. Four years later, I had our beautiful daughter, Josey.

Living with Turner syndrome has made me realize that even though there are challenges along the way and things do not come as easily, it cannot stop me from my dreams.