Taryn has been through a lot in her seven years. Her mother, Kathleen, was pregnant with twins and gave birth to Taryn at just 30 weeks – 10 weeks premature. Sadly, her twin sister Destiny did not survive. Taryn was diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia and spastic diplegia cerebral palsy shortly after birth. This diagnosis prevented her from walking. Taryn got around by crawling the majority of the time, but that didn’t stop her playful spirit!

 

On October 10, 2014, at just 5 years old, Taryn underwent selective dorsal rhizotomy, a surgery to loosen her tightened ligaments in hopes that she would be able to walk. She was transferred to PSE&G Children’s Specialized Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ for her intense inpatient therapy where she began her long road to recovery. Taryn was discharged six weeks later and has made so much progress that she is expected to not only walk, but RUN within a year!

Taryn is always smiling and singing her favorite songs from "Sound of Music" or "Annie." Taryn also loves to spend time with her four siblings, singing, doing crafts, and playing outside. Taryn's future goal is to become a firefighter, just like her oldest brother! Taryn has a special spirit and truly touches the lives of anyone she meets. Taryn certainly inspires all to never give up.