This is an amazing story on many levels. I found it through One Marine’s View. The story was sent to Captain B and posted by Major Pain and all I can say is WOW! Meet the Little Marine, Taylor.
Hello Captain B,
Let me introduce myself to you and then I have a little story for you to read about my exceptional daughter.My name is Cathy, I am a housewife/ part time caterer with 2 wonderful children. Taylor Grayce, age 12 and Tanner Shay, age 9. Now earlier, I said I had a little story, but that is not really the case. I hope you have time because I am going to probably make your eyeballs cross by the time this is done.
Twelve years ago, I was blessed with the birth of my beautiful daughter Taylor. I know you have children, so I know I don’t have to explain the overwhelming feeling of love you have the first time you see your child. I have always wanted to be a mom, even when I was a child myself, I just knew it was my ‘calling’ so to speak…
Capt. B, from day one my daughter has had to fight and she has had to fight hard, every day of her life. Her struggles are many. Her first surgery was at 6 months old and she has since had to endure 5 others and we know she will have more. We always felt there was something else going on with her other then just her heart condition. At 10 years old, she already had 4 charts full just at her pediatricians office, not to mention all the specialist we had been bounced around to. She was very small for her age, and never healthy. She struggled with things that came so natural for other kids. To say that she has been medically traumatized by all the testing and poking and prodding and surgeries she has had is just about the biggest understatement there could be.
Finally, when she was 11, I couldn’t stand it any longer and insisted that we take her to Mayo Clinic to find out what was wrong with her. I had to take on our insurance company, and I had to fight all the way to the top as well as getting a state Senator involved. I was determined to get her there one way or the other and after months, I won and we were on our way. What we found out there, devastated me at first. It was that double edged sword, you fight to find out what is wrong but once you do, you wish you didn’t. After her 4th day there, they had pretty much a diagnosis, but didn’t have the blood work to confirm it. Mind you, 4 days there and they knew what it was versus 11 long years of misdiagnosis here. We found out she has a genetic chromosomal disorder. She is actually missing a chromosome. In that missing chromosome, she has lost miles and miles of genetic makeup. She is not mentally retarded like Downs, they actually have an extra chromosome. We found out that this condition only effects girls and it is extremely rare because only LESS then 1% of these girls are even born. Well what the hell more of a miracle do I need then that? That right there told me just how amazing she is and just how strong she is. In being born, she had already beat the odds…
Now, onto the amazing part. For what she has had to endure, for the amount of struggles she has had to do, she always has a smile on her face. She is so compassionate and so caring. She has this light about her. I know every parent feels this way about their child, but I kid you not……her light shines just a bit brighter.
Ever since Taylor was very young, she has always had a huge fascination with the military. If she saw someone in uniform, it is like she had this respect for them, even before she knew what respect was. As she has grew, so did the fascination. When the war in Iraq started, she always wanted to do something, I just never knew what we could do. One day, a little over a year ago, the website for anysoldier was passed onto me. Taylor and I sat down and we read almost every entry from that day. We came upon your posting and both of us were laughing about something you said about Elvis. But, I could tell by the way that you wrote, you more then likely had a huge following of supporters! So we kept on looking, but we always checked your postings and looked forward to them! As luck would have it, we came upon a Marine who posted GO BLUE (for the Michigan Wolverines) and that he loved the Detroit Red Wings. That was it, this was her man she choose to send to. She loves her Wolverines, as that is where she had her heart surgery at and she just loves the Wings.
She sat down and wrote out a letter to this Marine and then her and I went shopping. I had no idea on really what to get, so I asked her if I put her down in the middle of the field with not even her pooh bear and blankie, what would she want. At 11 years old, she set out on a mission and picked out things that I never would have thought of, and things that were so appropriate! I wrote a note about her to the Marine, as I wanted him to know about who was sending to him. I told Taylor that we probably would never hear from him, as he had a very important job to do. In Taylor’s grown up way of saying things, told me that it was OK, she wasn’t doing it for a letter back, she was doing it because it was the right thing to do. 11 YEARS OLD!! Amazing how she seems to get ‘it’ while most adults don’t and never will. We sent off several packages to this Marine and one day, we checked to see if he had any updates and were crushed to find out anysoldier had not heard from him and he was dropped. We knew as well that his time to go home was more then likely close. But, we thought, go onto someone else. A few days later, a box came for Taylor and I saw the customs form on it so I knew where it came from. I don’t know who was more excited, her or I! I got my camera all ready, for her little face was just aglow. She sat down in the middle of the living room floor, surrounded by my husband, my mom, her brother and myself. She opened her box and the first thing she pulled out was a boonie hat with a pin in it that we weren’t sure what it was (we later found out that it was the chevron this Marine was promoted to Sergeant with), and Marine shirt. Then she just sort of gasped, and so slowly, pulled out an American flag, folded into a triangle. She said ‘mom, look at what I got!’ with it, was a certificate that it was flown on a mission in her honor. She just sat there, holding that flag, staring at it. You know, the whole time this was all going on, I had that camera in my hand and never took one picture! I was so enthralled by her and what was happening, I couldn’t take my eyes off of her! She never let go of her flag, and I should add that this flag is by far, her most prized possession EVER. She found a letter and started to read it, holding her flag to her heart as she did. What happened next, I can only describe simply as life altering. She read the letter to us, speaking slowing and clearly. This young Marine told a bit about himself but then talked about her and how special she is. He told her who wonderful it was that she was trying to take care of them while they were out doing their jobs. He told her that her courage was amazing and her spirit was that of a Marine and because of that, he was making her an Honorary United States Marine. When she read that, she looked at me dead in the eye, with a tear rolling down and said in a tone I had never heard before, ‘I am a Marine, ooh rah’. With that, I swear, I saw something in her I had never seen. In that moment, that Marine had given my daughter what I had tried to her whole life. Her spirit just grew by leaps and bounds. I could actually not only see something in her, but I could feel it. Needless to say, I was bawling.
From that moment on, things have been very different for Taylor. She now faces her challenges head on. Instead of fighting against what is being done to her, she fights for it. I can remember the very first time she had to have something done after this happened, she walked into that room, head held high and chest just puffed out. She got up on that table, she still had tears, but she did it! When it was all done, she jumped off that table and ran to me yelling ‘I DID IT! I DID IT OOH RAH!’ All I could get out was OOH RAH baby, because my throat and emotions wouldn’t let me say anything else. The little things that used to frustrate her, just didn’t matter any longer. Her whole demeanor was completely different, it was like she wasn’t even the same person. Life altering.
Her and her Marine have kept in touch through email, and he was thinking of getting out of the Marines as he had been in for 8 years. She just got a surprise from him, he wrote to her and said he had decided to reenlist, as he liked helping people way to much! He lived in PA and is being transferred to Texas. He made a surprise visit to meet her. I never will be able to give this young man enough praise for what he has done for my child. In his one small gesture, in words on paper, changed our whole lives forever. How do you thank someone for that? And true to form, he claims he is nothing special. I beg to differ!
She has since picked out many others to send to, and even picked out someone from the Army, just to be fair! LOL She has a Marine Major that is keeping in great contact with her through email and it means the world to her, he tells her that her courage is inspiring to him.
While my daughter will never be able to join the service, never go through basic training, never get that Eagle Globe and never be able to wear the uniform, in her heart and soul she IS a United States Marine and she IS an American Warrior. I can’t even convey on just how proud I am of her for this. Her obstacles are many, but she takes them one at a time.
We just found out that she is going to go Bethesda Maryland at the National Institute of Health for some intensive testing. We are not sure on the dates as of yet, but were told that it might be in September. At first, Taylor did not want to go. I believe she remembered the hell she went through while at Mayo and just wasn’t up for that. Then, just as soon as she said she didn’t want to go, she stopped and did an about face. Her exact words….Marines don’t back down and I am not going to either, I want to go. We do know she will be tested from Sunday to Thursday. They are paying our way there and back, so I am not sure if she is going to be able to take in any of the sites in Washington and this has her a bit down. She really wanted to see Arlington, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. We knew there was a barracks there that did a parade, but I believe that is only up until August, so she will miss that.
Here is the reason I am writing. I figure you know ‘people’ right? I was wondering if you could put me in contact with someone, anyone that I can tell her story to and maybe see if I can’t get some Marines to come visit her while she is at the Institute when I get the exact dates? As I said, I am not even sure if we are going to be able to get out to see anything.
Taylor has met her special Marine, and to her that was gold. But, she has never met anyone in uniform. I would just love for someone to come in, talk with her in uniform and recognize her for the Marine that she is. I am not asking for anyone to give her anything, just someone to talk to her. Someone in uniform, that can salute her and make her feel that she is indeed a warrior. Can you help me? I can only imagine that you more then likely get a lot of emails asking for things and probably get pretty tired of it. I know you are busy, and if you can’t help, I do understand.
I thank you for your time in reading this, and as I said, I would greatly appreciate any help you can give me, but I also do not expect it.
Thank you,
Cathy B.
I do not know what dates Taylor was in Bethesda, but there are pictures with Patriot Guard Riders here. Taylor has shown though determination, that she has the heart of a Marine. Not only have “her Marines” helped her to face her problems head-on, but she has encouraged those same Marines to work harder and to be better Marines themselves! They have truly inspired each other!
Thanks for posting this! One Team, One Fight! Semper Fi
Semper Gratis, Major Pain! You guys are the best!
Anna: I’m going to have to keep a box of Kleenex next to the computer when I visit you. This latest was both heartbreaking and inspiring.
This little girl is a fighter, just like her beloved Marines.
Sorry, Mike! I should have put a warning on it! Same with the post just below. I’ve read those stories several times, but I tear up every time!!
She has the spirit of a warrior, the heart of a tiger.
Now, I’ll just go read the post and letter.
Ever since Taylor was very young, she has always had a huge fascination with the military. If she saw someone in uniform, it is like she had this respect for them, even before she knew what respect was.
It is as if she hears and recognizes the strength in others, the same strength that empowers her own soul and spirit. Things often sensed, but never explained or written down. A fleeting image in the mirror, not quite her, and not quite a stranger either.
Amazing how she seems to get ‘it’ while most adults don’t and never will.
Endure, in enduring, grow strong.
We are stronger together, than we are ever apart.
How do you thank someone for that? And true to form, he claims he is nothing special. I beg to differ!
Even the smallest of actions may have great consequences.
Not only have “her Marines” helped her to face her problems head-on, but she has encouraged those same Marines to work harder and to be better Marines themselves! They have truly inspired each other!
Every human being has their own personal limitations. The ability to only channel a specific amount of power, for a specific amount of time. In order to surpass those human limitations, one must care for and protect another. True strength lies not only in the power you yourself hold, but in your duty to the people that you wish to protect and care for.
This is a principle, that seems more and more true as historical events pass us by.
It is also true that only those who have known fear and suffering all of their lives, will be assured of being able to recognize what truth strength is. It is the curse to go along with the gift, and while we may not be able to change human nature and the state of our mortal coils that rest upon this plane of existence, we may still do what we can.
One Team, One Fight! Semper Fi
Indeed. For whatever damage my enemy does unto me, I shall return unto him a thousand fold. For the shield that is hit, protects a thousand innocents. Death itself would find it hard to stop one who has the spirit of every ancestor beside him, and behind him. If ever the shield of the defenders should fall, another will pick it up, to stand his place upon the line. They shall not pass lest even one remains standing upon the broken grounds. For what is the purpose and reason for having power,
If you do not use it to protect those who deserve your protection?
As the Japanese once said. Death is lighter than a feather, duty heavier than mountains.
I don’t know why, Anna, but I seem to have gotten some pollen or dust in my eyes. Perhaps it was from the luscious valley you posted before. But I’m okay now.
That song is nice because, to me at least, it calms the soul.
I know, Ymarsakar, those darn allergies! They get me everytime, too!
It’s true that those who have known struggle and adversity and have gained strength from it, will see it in others. They will also inspire it in others and that in turn strengthens them further. It is a good circle (versus a vicious circle). And if the reverse is true, then it explains a lot about those who despise personal strength.
thanks for this fine Post ANNA…
outstanding…
these are the very finest we have…
Taylor could teach John Kerry a thing or two…
That’s a really nice video, Ymarsakar! I completely enjoyed the LOTR movies and my daughter has the soundtracks. Though this song is not on the soundtracks, it certainly has that feel to it! Very nice…thank you for sharing!
She is amazing, isn’t she, BB? What a fighter…what an inspiration! And those Marines! *sigh*
I’m pleased, that you liked it.
Most people shorten my name to Ymar or Y/YM. Might save you some typing if you wish it.
I always shorten other people’s names down to the first 4 or so letters, almost automatically.
It is also part of the method in which I created the cognomen in the first place. If you want to read more, you can go to this old post of mine about it.
http://ymarsakar.blogspot.com/2006/04/why-ymarsakar.html
One of the posts Bookworm recently did, was in relation to a blog post by Gael. Gael was writing about Clinton and something Clinton said nudged at me. Here’s the link to the comment I made at Bookworm, concerning the subject of how weak people rely upon others for sustenance, as opposed to providing anything in return.
[...] And here’s her story: (h/t A Rose By Any other Name and Captain B and Major Pain) Major Pain says:Before you read this, know two things, 1) Im already going to see her and two there are some others (Patriot Guard Riders) who did the same! Carry on…….. [...]
[...] And here’s her story: (h/t A Rose By Any other Name and Captain B and Major Pain) Major Pain says:Before you read this, know two things, 1) Im already going to see her and two there are some others (Patriot Guard Riders) who did the same! Carry on…….. [...]
http://bookwormroom.wordpress.com/2006/10/17/where-is-she-now
Whoops, forgot the link, my bad.
Was making another comment on Bookworm’s blog, at the same time.
Nobody, not even God himself, can and will decide for an individual, what that individual will or will not do. Our willpower, if not our fates, are in our hands. There is no inshallah, here.
And if the reverse is true, then it explains a lot about those who despise personal strength.
As the vampire looks upon the archangel, what does he see except the brilliant light that will never be his to hold? When miserable people want to spread misery to others, it is primarily because they feed upon the negative energies and emotions for their strength and power. Darkness vs light, Chaos vs Order, and civilization vs barbarianism.
The dichotomy never ends, the conflict never concludes, not even within our souls.
True strength lies in the light, not the darkness. It is as true of a nuclear explosion, as it is when looking at the face of North Korea from orbit, free from the sun’s glare.
Those who can use the powers of the light and of the dark, compassion for others as well as hateful rage for the enemy, those are beings from which there is no escape, neither the light nor the darkness may protect against them.
No better friend, no worse enemy. The Angel of Death is neither a product of pure light and goodness, nor is it a product of pure darkness and destruction.
That’s okay, Ymarsakar. I don’t mind typing it. It kind of rolls off the keyboard! Besides, I actually do transcriptions for work so typing, you could say, is my life!
Clinton is a hollow man. He is all flash and no substance, therefore when people “see the man behind the curtain” it hurts him far worse (makes him angrier) then someone who has actual self-worth.
Lightness and darkness. I prefer the light.
I am currently reading a book called Warlords: No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy by Ilario Pantano. He is a former Marine who was brought up on charges for “murdering” two insurgents. He was cleared, but not before the press had crucified him, just as they are doing to the Haditha soldiers and the others. I think you might like it.
Again…thank you for your comments Ymarsakar!
Thanks for the links, Yankeemom! She is an amazing little girl!
Okay – I’m shouldn’t have read this at work – I’m tearing up. What an absolutely beautiful story ….
Thank you so much for sharing it Anna. What an inspiring and beautiful little girl.
I know, I told Mike I should put a kleenex warning at the beginning!
She is a real trooper and what a spirit…her Mom, too!
Pantano is impressive, I saw him on an interview with Jon Stewart. He had Stewart on the ropes throughout the entire segment. He even said something that was true to him, but was funny to the audience since the audience saw it as a joke, and he did not even blink in response. That was how cool his composure was.
As expected of a combat leader. The sang froid, always thinking and worrying about the situation, but it does not show on his face. Here’s the tube vid.
I should be the one thanking you for your graciousness as a host, Anna. Not you to me.
You are more than welcome here Ymarsakar. You always give me much food for thought.
I will watch the video, but I am really bad and putting off work at the moment!
I am thoroughly enjoying Pantano’s book. I finished “Blog of War” just prior to starting “Warlords” and that is another great book.
You need not look beyond the next room. Bethesda is full of Marines recovering from wounds. Anyone of them would be honored to visit your daughter.
David
Gosh dang these alregies! I must be allergic to Roses because every time I come to this sight my eyes start leaking!
OORAH! Anna, OORAH! Taylor!
Semper Fi!
I’m sure there were many, many Marines there to visit her! She got to meet a whole crew of Patriot Guards, too. Hopefully we can get an update and find out how she’s doing.
You’re funny, Gawfer! I know what you mean about allergies. These stories never fail to make tears come to my eyes and I have heard from Chief Gebhardt! I will post his comment.
There is a short post and a picture of Marines from 8th and I visiting Taylor at http://www.diddymou.com. (disclosure) Third Marine from left is my own.
Oh, THANK YOU so much MamaTod! You are a wonderful woman!
MamaTod, that is one handsome young Marine you have there! You have got to be so proud! Thank you again…that picture is going up along with the post, because it is so beautifully written…this time I’ll have to put a Kleenex warning up with it!
[...] We have all been inspired by Taylor’s story. Her struggle, her strength and her love of the Marines. While she was in Bethesda for further medical attention, she received a wonderful gift! She had a visit from some very special young men. (Her story is here.) [...]
[...] Taylor’s dream was to meet some Marines while she was in Bethesda for some medical testing and as you can see, her dream came true. [...]
I found this story randomly on the internet. I greatly enjoyed reading about Taylor. It brought tears to my eyes and was very heart warming. This little girl does have a great mission in life, and I think she’s already doing it. Her love and respect for the military was something that just came to her naturally and she’s carrying out that feeling. She’s an amazing girl and gift to the world. I have a cousin in the Marines, as well as a Grandfather who is a retired Marine. My Tio is in the Air Force, and my Dad was in the Army. As you can see I’ve been surrounded with the military for most of my life. I also have a great respect for these men and women no matter what branch or rank they hold. I’m glad I stumbled across this article and enjoyed reading it. Thank you. Semper Fidelis!
I’m so glad you found this story, Desiree! Taylor is an amazing little girl. I hope you clicked on the links above (“Marine Mom” and “The Little Marine Meets Her Men”) as those are the updates with her meeting the Marines while she was at Bethesda. I need to find out if there’s a newer update on her…
Thanks for coming by and stop back any time! Thanks also, for all the sacrifices your family has made in order to serve this great country! (Semper Gratis!)
Anna,
My precious niece Desiree, who is herself quite an inspiration to her family and very loved, was born pre-mature @ 2lbs 7 oz. He heart is always touched by the courage of others. I too was very moved by your beautiful daughters mission. May she continue to encourage our Marines and all other branches to be better and move forward without trepidation. I believe much of her strenth is taken from your perseverance. God Bless your family with health and happiness.
Bulldog Mom/Daughter. Semper Fi Teresa
Teresa, I would be honored to call Taylor a daughter, but she is not mine. Her mother is Cathy, another inspiration! Her story was so moving that I just had to share it when I read it on One Marine’s View.
I thank God that I was blessed with two healthy daughters who are inspirations to me, our family and their friends. They were both moved by Taylor’s story as well and we all wish them the best.
Semper Gratis,
Anna
I came across this Story randomly while looking up Marine lingo and I must say that this story did bring tears to my eyes. this little girl has the good ol Marine Corps spirit. the Marine Corps truely does run through her vaynes.
This story has Inspired me and has Motivated me again into joining the Marines. i’ve been in doubt about everything in my life and i havent been as motivated as i use to be about enlisting into the Marine Corps but reading about this young lady’s uplifting spirit and reading about her love for the Corps made me realize that I too have the heart of a Marine and that I too am destined to be Part of this great and Wonderful brotherhood called the Marines.
I too had a great pasion for the Marine Corps when I child, then at such a young age to be so determined about something do you really know its where you sohuld be for the rest of your life.
I have Great Respect for this young lady, may their forever be good health to you Taylor, your family, and our Beloved Corps.
Semper Fi, Marine
James, thank you for sharing your story. Taylor is a brave girl and I know that her strength and determination have inspired many. I wish you the best and may God keep you safe.
Semper Fi all!
I just came across this story about Taylor Grayce. Does anyone know how the girl and family is doing?
Once again, I am proud to be an American (THE greates country on earth!) and a family member of the Marine Corps, along with Taylor!
Semper fi girl!
Sgt. Mark.
PS: I will pass this tory on to our 3 girls!
Sorry about the spelling errors in my previous email!
ONE MORE TIME……
Semper Fi all!
I just came across this story about Taylor Grayce. Does anyone know how the girl and family is doing?
Once again, I am proud to be an American (THE greatest country on earth!), and a family member of the Marine Corps, along with Taylor!
Semper fi girl!
Sgt. Mark.
PS: I will pass this story on to our 3 girls!
How’s the Marine doing?
- Lcpl. Martin
Sorry, I wish I knew how she was doing these days! I can’t believe this post is from 3 years ago and still has people commenting! I’ll have to do a little research and post the updates!
Thank you to everyone who has responded. I pray that Taylor and “her marines” are all well and thriving.
[...] posts about Taylor: The Little Marine The Little Marine Meets Her [...]
Semper Fi from the Old Corps!
1950-1982
Reading this story, you don’t know how close to home this hits. Unlike Taylor, I was perfectly healthy up until middle school when we noticed that I just wasn’t keeping up in gym class the way a girl of my apparent good shape should be. At 12, I was diagnosed with a rare, progressive, nuero-muscular disease. 8 years later, 6 months until my 21st birthday, it’s a daily battle, emotionally and physically. I applaud Taylor for being the generous soul she obviously is. With a serious disability, especially at such a young, and already difficult age, it’s easy to give up or become selfish and inverted but this little girl has done the opposite. I can relate to her on many different levels, especially her fascination with the military. Twenty years old, and my stomach still jumps to my chest when I see a service man/woman in uniform lol. Especially those Marines in their blues lol! It’s a little bittersweet now, knowing that I will never be able to join that family but it makes my heart happy to know that Taylor got to realize her dream of being a Devil Dog. Ooh rah Taylor girl! You rock!!!
Hey there is a program called the Young Marines. This is a program for boys and girls between the ages of 8-18. And they are trained like soldiers. What I mean by this is that they learn marching, military knowlegde, surivor skills, teamwork and much more. Since your daughter seems so interested in the Military, I would highly recommend checking out the Young Marines. It is a great program. I know because I went through it. I was in for 7 years and I loved every minute of it. I was a lot like your daughter and this program has helped me in so many ways. For more information regardingthe Young Marines just go to the website http://www.youngmarines.com.