My Story: What We're Thankful For - Turner Syndrome Foundation

My Story: What We’re Thankful For

November is a time to give thanks for the special people and things in our lives. Even with challenges like Turner Syndrome (TS), we all can find something to be grateful for. The Turner Syndrome Foundation (TSF) asked its members what they are most thankful for, and below is what a few of them said.

Kim & Raya

My name is Kim, and I’m from the Philippines. I’m a single mother raising my beautiful four-month-old daughter Azariah Elise (Baby Raya) on my own right now. She was diagnosed with TS when I gave birth. The father unfortunately passed away the same day I found out I was pregnant. It has been a challenging chapter. During the second trimester of my pregnancy, I found out that my baby was not healthy and there were a lot of complications, such as hydrops fetalis, oligohydramnios, cystic hygroma, etc.

I worried and prayed a lot for her safety, and when she was born, she had to stay in the NICU for three weeks. She’s now doing well, and I thank God for giving me a wonderful and strong baby. I know this is the beginning of our story and there will be lots of moments for us to smile and be brave, but what’s important is to have a positive outlook as we continue to face life.

Nicole

I feel extremely thankful and grateful for my family, above all else. Particularly, I’m grateful to have my husband Richard in my life. I am also very thankful for my mom and grandma and how supportive they are of me. I am extremely grateful for my nephews, my brother and sister in law, and all the fun memories we get to make together. I am also very grateful to my mother and father-in-law.

I am thankful that I have a rewarding career that allows me not only to provide for myself and my family, but also do good and help my students reach their highest potential. I am thankful that I have a warm and safe place to live. I believe there are always positives to focus on, even though times can get tough. It is important how you face those challenges and tough times and move onward and upward, and I am grateful to be able to do so in my own life.

Kayla

I’m thankful for my story. Only 1 to 3% of fetuses with TS will survive to birth. So I’m thankful for the life I get to live. I have the opportunity to tell my story and use it to impact others. My own medical journey as a TS patient led me to a career in medicine, working as a physician assistant at a family practice. Though having TS has its challenges, it’s part of my story, and I wouldn’t change a thing!