Turner Syndrome is a Learning Curve - by Jessica Carlough

Hi, everyone. My name is Jessica. I’m 33 and was diagnosed with classic Turner syndrome via amniocentesis in utero at around 20 weeks gestation. I was delivered at 38 weeks and spent one night in the NICU before coming home at 2 days old. From about 18 months- five years, I attended a preschool for kids with special needs, where I received OT, PT, ST, and equestrian therapy.

When I was 2, I had my coarctation of the aorta repaired, which I have monitored to this day. When I was around eight, I was also diagnosed with a slight vision impairment. In middle school, I was also diagnosed with autism and NLD (nonverbal learning disability).

As I moved further along in school, I struggled both academically and socially, but was able to make it through. When I was eighteen, I began wearing hearing aids and attended my local community college. After three years of college, I struggled with finding work, but eventually found a job a couple of days a week at TJ Max. I eventually received clerical training and was able to find an office job through a friend (who also happens to be my boss 🙂) at the college where I graduated from.

Back in 2020, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, which has been a learning curve, but I’m managing. Most recently, my vision has become more of an issue, but I’m hoping to see the other side of that soon. Some things I enjoy are reading, writing, being around animals and kids, traveling and serving at my church. God has been faithful to me and I’m grateful to him. Many blessings to you all.