Keep Flying, Regardless! by Jasmine Mathis

"She hasn't grown a centimeter in a year. She is also not showing signs of puberty or development. I am going to refer her to an endocrinologist to see what exactly is going on". These are the concerning words that my 13 year old self, along with my mother, heard from my primary doctor when getting my softball physical.

We scheduled an appointment immediately with an endocrinologist to make sure that I was ok, and my mother and I went to get checked out further. Months later, we received the phone call from my endocrinologist, "I have confirmed that she has Turner syndrome". I was14 years old when I got diagnosed and this has made a significant impact on my life in many ways. I am still trying to confirm if I am considered Classic or Mosaic. So far, I have been so blessed and don’t have too many health issues, but I am frequently monitored.

My name is Jasmine Mathis, and I am from Columbus, Ohio. I was originally born in Baltimore, Maryland, but raised in Columbus. I go back to Maryland  often to visit since my dad and many family members still reside there.

I am now 33 years old and I have been married for 5 years to my husband Devin. I am working on my Doctorate in Human Resources. I have many hobbies which include traveling, learning Spanish and Arabic, dancing, food, coffee shops, music, movies, and sports. I am most proud of how far I have come as a woman with Turner syndrome with my little family, my spiritual and academic accomplishments, and not letting my diagnosis define who I am, or any abilities that I could have.

I feel truly blessed to say that I have had many people help me along the way. My husband is my biggest supporter in everything that I do. My parents have always instilled strength and life lessons in me and have supported me through everything from medical to personal endeavors. I have always been very close to my grandparents on both sides. They’ve showed me love beyond measure and they truly embrace my gifts. My aunt has also always supported me, and most of all, my God Jehovah. I am truly blessed with support!

One of my favorite movies would be Mean Girls because it’s hilarious, and Inside Out. Joy is literally how I see life! One of my biggest challenges I have overcome is realizing that people do see you differently as a person with TS, especially when it comes to height. While I have always accepted my height (4ft 9), people equate your height with abilities and age.

If I were to give one piece of advice, it would be to keep flying, regardless of if you are a Butterfly, or just know a Butterfly. While some day’s are easier than others, it is our attitude and how we overcome our obstacles and failures that define who we really are. Take your “no's”, losses, and unexpected setbacks as opportunities.