Early testing revealed a brain injury, and by her first birthday she was diagnosed with spastic diplegia cerebral palsy, a condition that mainly affected her legs. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder, in which there is injury to the part of the brain that controls muscle movement. It can occur in the womb, at birth or up to three years of age. The most common cause is complications of premature delivery resulting in either lack of sufficient oxygen to the brain or bleeding into the brain.

At age five, Taryn underwent a Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) to reduce spasticity and improve her mobility. Following surgery, she began intensive rehabilitation at Children’s Specialized Hospital, where her care team and family worked alongside her to strengthen her legs. Step by step, she progressed from a walker toward greater independence using crutches, never letting the hard work dampen her spirit.

Taryn’s mother, Kathleen, was very impressed with the hospital right from the beginning. “Taryn was excited she would be going to a place like Children’s Specialized Hospital,” said Kathleen. “Even though her stay was for rehabilitation, Children’s Specialized Hospital is a warm and welcoming place for children and families, with kind staff.”

Even as a young child, Taryn’s determination and personality shined through. She thrived in a mainstream classroom, loved playing with her siblings, and always found creative ways to keep up. Whether it was doing crafts, playing outside, or even attempting cartwheels on her knees. Her zest for life made it clear that her diagnoses would never define her.

Now, 10 years later, Taryn’s journey continues to inspire as she reaches new milestones and embraces life with the same determination and joy that defined her early years. She looks back fondly on her time at Children’s Specialized Hospital.

Taryn now fully uses crutches, often times alternating between one and two. She has been strengthening her leg muscles over time with hippotherapy weekly, which is the use of horseback riding as a therapeutic or rehabilitative treatment. This kind of therapy is especially beneficial in improving coordination, balance, and strength.

Now 16, Taryn has big goals like attending the University of Edinburgh in Scotland to study music, writing and minor in business. Still allowing her creativity to fuel her, she loves writing and singing, and has dreams of becoming a famous singer one day.

“I did fall back into my old life quite quickly after leaving the hospital, but I never forgot what I learned there,” said Taryn. “I learned to pay attention to what makes others different, and I make sure to tell them that their differences are beautiful.”

As Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation celebrates 40 years of helping children reach their full potential, Taryn’s journey reminds us what the mission is all about. Her determination, creativity, and bright dreams for the future are a powerful testament to the lifelong impact that generosity can have on a child.