Just Keep Swimming - by Andrea Pflughoeft

February holds a special meaning in my heart-not only because my birthday is Groundhog Day (Feb. 2nd), but because I get to celebrate being a TS butterfly all month long! In my (almost) 26 years of life, things have most certainly not been easy for me. Before I was diagnosed with Turner syndrome in elementary school, I felt different from my peers. I really wasn’t sure why until I got handed the diagnosis that would change my life (though I didn’t know it yet): mosaic Turner syndrome.

At the time, I didn’t understand the struggles I would face, but that I would also be an extremely strong woman and overcome those struggles with grace because of it. I’ve been bullied most of my life. I’ve battled anxiety and depression for years, and I was diagnosed with high functioning Autism just last year while trying to overcome the fact that I no longer have the passion for nursing I once had (which unfortunately means starting over).

Now I know this seems like it’d be overwhelming, but I keep reminding myself that God has a plan for me; I just must find it! With a little bit of faith and a lot of support from friends and family, I know that all the experiences (positive and negative) I’ve had in life thus far have made me stronger and more determined than ever to succeed in life.

Everyone said I wouldn’t amount to anything when I was little because of TS. Subsequently, I was treated like I had a disability, but have come to find out that TS is a strength, not a weakness, a disability, or anything to be ashamed of. Every day I look in the mirror and can’t help but think how fortunate I am to be a part of the 2% of TS butterflies that get to leave their mark on this world. I’m inspired to be my best self each and every day and to find my true purpose and passion. I may not know what that is yet, but I know I have to “just keep swimming” (bonus points if you know what Disney movie that’s from)!