By Tanaya’s family
Tanaya is 30 years old and is Team CdLS’ 2025 Chicago Curb Crew Ambassador!
Tanaya is an enthusiastic basketball player and fan, with a particular admiration for Jayson Tatum from the Boston Celtics. In addition to basketball, she is a talented artist who enjoys dancing and singing. She is also a huge fan of Disney.
How long has your family been involved with Team CdLS?
We’ve been involved with Team CdLS since 2008. From the very beginning, it felt like we found people who truly “get it” — families who understand both the challenges and the celebrations that come with CdLS. It’s given us a sense of community, encouragement, and purpose.
What does it mean for Tanaya to be a curb crew ambassador?
For Tanaya, being a curb crew ambassador is a way to shine in her own way. She might not be out running the race, but she’s an incredible cheerleader — bringing her smile, energy, and hugs to the runners. Her smile is her superpower. It shows that there are so many ways to be involved and make an impact, no matter your abilities.
How has CdLS impacted Tanaya?
CdLS has shaped parts of Tanaya’s life, especially when it comes to communication, learning, and certain health needs. But it doesn’t define her. She’s funny, determined, and full of personality. Yes, there are extra challenges — and we’ve learned to navigate a lot of medical and educational systems — but it’s also brought out a resilience in her, and in our family, that I don’t think we’d have discovered otherwise.
What advice do you have for parents whose children are reaching adulthood?
Plan early and stay flexible. Transitioning to adulthood with a child who has CdLS means thinking about medical care, daily living skills, guardianship, and community resources — but more importantly, it also means continuing to see them as a person with dreams and preferences. Involve your child as much as possible in decisions and celebrate their milestones no matter how small.
Anything else you would like to share with our community?
Just that you’re not alone — this community is here for you. CdLS may be rare, but the love, patience, and creativity it brings out in our families are incredibly strong. We’ve seen how powerful it is when we share stories, advocate together, and lift each other up. And Tanaya? She’s proof that even when the path looks different, it can still be full of joy.
Thank you from Tanaya’s family! Tanaya will be there with high-fives and hugs at our pre-race and post-race dinners and at mile 21 on Marathon Day, under one of the frog umbrellas.
Recent Comments