A 12-year-old Geelong girl, whose life has been defined by immense medical challenges from birth, has been recognised with a prestigious award for her extraordinary courage and resilience.
A Lifetime of Medical Challenges
Jasmyn Tate was born with a rare and complex condition called heterotaxy syndrome, which meant her organs formed on the wrong sides of her body. Her heart defects were so severe that she underwent her first open-heart surgery when she was just five days old. This was merely the beginning of a gruelling medical journey.
By the time she was eight years old, Jasmyn had endured more than 15 surgeries. Her heart was failing, and the only path forward was a transplant. In 2020, she received that life-saving gift. However, her battle was far from over. Her body began to reject the new heart, leading to another critical surgery and a prolonged stay in hospital, separated from her family in Geelong due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Recognition for Unwavering Spirit
For her incredible strength in facing these relentless trials, Jasmyn was recently presented with a Courage Award from the Starlight Children's Foundation. The award acknowledges the bravery of seriously ill children and young people. Her mother, Krystal Tate, nominated her, wanting the world to see the fighter her daughter is.
"She's been through enough," Krystal said, her voice filled with emotion. "I just wanted her to be recognised for everything she's been through and how strong she's been." She described the immense pride she feels watching Jasmyn face each obstacle with a determination that belies her years.
Looking to a Brighter Future
Today, Jasmyn's health is more stable, though she requires ongoing medication and faces potential future surgeries. Despite everything, she is described as a typical, cheerful pre-teen who loves animals, music, and spending time with her family. The award has provided a joyful moment of celebration for a family that has known so much stress and worry.
The Starlight Children's Foundation, which runs the Captain Starlight program in hospitals, has been a source of vital distraction and joy for Jasmyn during her many admissions. The Courage Award serves as a powerful testament to her journey and an inspiration to others facing similar health battles.
Jasmyn's story is one of profound medical adversity, but also of hope, the gift of organ donation, and the remarkable resilience found in a young girl from Geelong.
