A young girl writes about her little sister, who lives with a serious physical disability, spina bifida.
I have a little sister who is the light of my world.
My sister's name is Taryn Marie; she is seven. She was born with myelomeningocele, more commonly known as spina bifida, or "divided spine". When my sister was being born, being formed inside mommy's tummy, her spinal cord didn't form right, leaving the nerves in the lower part exposed.
When born, tiny Taryn had a grapefruit-sized lump on her back, requiring immediate surgery to save her life. She's had at least 20 surgeries since then, the last one occurring in January of this year, when she had to have her bladder redone after she developed a severe urinary tract infection. She nearly died as a result of complications that set in after surgery. That she even survived this last surgery is nothing short of a miracle.
Now, at the age of seven, Taryn is (for now) enjoying a spate of good health. She has managed to stay out of the hospital since her surgery back in January (seven months now, going on eight); she looks the best she's had in a very long time. Taryn is now walking with purple forearm crutches and braces on her legs; for longer trips, she uses her wheelchair (also purple; purple is her favorite color). Nothing slows my sister down. She is fearless, not afraid to try anything new. She skis in the winter, swims in the summer, plays soccer in the spring, and jumps into leaves in the fall. Taryn is quite the little athlete: she's won medals for her accomplishments. We are all extremely proud of her.
In addition to her athleticism, Taryn is gifted at singing. In fact, her goal in life is to become a singer. Her favorite music is country/western; her favorite singer is Loretta Lynn; in fact, she wants to be jut like her when she grows up. Taryn also loves a young up-and-coming singer named Ronee' Le-Anne Reaux, who does Cajun and c/w music. Taryn first saw Ronee' Reaux sing at a local festival a few years back, when she was three (Taryn, not Ronee'), and she loves Ronee' to pieces. Now my little sister is following in Ronee' 's footsteps between hospital stays/surgeries. She is taking voice lessons and is learning to sing Cajun-style songs. (Ronee' was ten when Taryn saw her last. She's now fourteen, a teenager.)
Taryn is not ashamed of her physical disabilities. In fact, her disability makes her more determined to get what she desires in life, and she teaches other people about accepting people who are "different". If people have trouble accepting Taryn--or others like her--or having problems looking beyond the wheelchair, braces, or crutches--, that makes her very sad. Nothing pleases her more than to have others play with her or comment her on her pretty blonde hair or her athletic skills or singing voice.
I just wish other people would learn to see what Taryn can do as opposed to what she can't do. Then the world would be a much better place for all involved.
*The End.*
P.S.: Taryn has met Loretta Lynn in person before; it was probably the most thrilling time of her young life! :) She's also met Ronee', several times.
Taryn sounds like a wonderful person to have found the strength, motivation, and fortitude to create a life for herself despite the disability. Sometimes I'm prone to think handicapped people are stronger by far than healthy people--perhaps that concept is a reasonable one since they must work twice as hard to achieve their goals. Great story.
Compassion for others seems to be wanning from our vocabulary and our hearts.
Thanks for reminding us that out there are people that do care.
Georg
Reviewed by Ron (sketchman) Axelson
8/18/2007
If I were ever to meet Taryn I would probably talk her ears off. I would surely want to hear her sing.
Everyone in life has a purpose, and all of us should respect that.
INspiring. IT would be fabulous if a person was seen for who they are rather than what they can't do. I loved the jumping in the leaves. Excellent. Liz
This is an amazing story, I am sure Sarah will be honored by this dedication
God Bless
Michelle~
Reviewed by Victor Buhagiar
8/18/2007
Why should she be ashamed of her disability? It is not of her own making. And if she is a good singer, then she's better than me for I am hoarse. Victor
Reviewed by d. k
8/18/2007
A wonderful write my friend. The innocence and pride are shown through this piece. It is my belief that no matter who you are....you count, no disability can hinder one from achieving what one desires. It may take longer, or be more difficult however that person is the stronger for sure. Great write!!
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