Kayla-Don’t Give Up and Have Faith

Some people be hesitating about asking me about my story because they think I’ll get all sensitive, but I’m not that type. I actually don’t mind telling my story because I think it might inspire and encourage other people that are also going through a lot too. My story is kind of long and is also still going.

Hi, my name is Kayla Ikei Tyson and I already know what you’re going to ask, “What kind of middle name is that?!” My sister named me and I really don’t know what “Ikei” means, but my sister probably just thought it was cute or something. Anyway, when my mama found out she was pregnant with me, it was a big shock to her because she was 40 years old and she was sure that she wasn’t having any more kids. She was at the doctor office because she thought she had the flu or something, but turned out it was me. When I was in my mama’s stomach, I really wasn’t moving like I was supposed to.

We were at family reunion when her water broke and everyone was freaking out, especially my daddy. We rushed to the hospital and that’s when everything went down. When I came out, I wasn’t doing anything, not crying or moving. So, they airlifted me to CMC as quick as they could. On the way, they had to bring me back to life 3 times. When I got to CMC hospital, the doctors diagnosed me with Arthogryposis Multi Complex. In other words, my muscles are weak and my joints are stiff. The doctor even said I wouldn’t live but 6 months. I can’t even imagine what my parents was thinking and feeling at that moment. I was 6lbs, 9oz. and I was very fatigue. Everyone was so scared to touch or hold me because they thought they would hurt me. Turns out, I lived longer than 6 months and I was my parents pride and joy.

Right now, I am 19 years old and finishing up my second year in college. I’m majoring in Digital Information Design with a concentration of Interactive Media. I love music and singing. I’m a very happy and goofy person and I try to see the positive in everything.

Whoever is reading this right now, please don’t give up on your hopes and dreams and on life. I know it might be hard right now, but I promise it will get better soon.

Follow me on Instagram to follow me on my life story @dimple.kay