09/02/2026
Fashion, friendship and her beloved cat Pati are at the heart of Aslim’s world. The 18-year-old from Ankara, Türkiye recently graduated from high school and dreams of becoming a famous fashion designer. She spends her time sketching women’s clothing designs.
“My designs make me happy when they go out into the world,” Aslim shares.
Aslim lives with (MPS) type IVA, also known as Morquio A syndrome, a progressive, rare genetic condition that causes the buildup of complex carbohydrates in the body and can lead to complications affecting multiple organs. While her family noticed symptoms when she was young, including changes in her vision, it took four years before she received an official diagnosis at age 7.
When the diagnosis finally came, it brought both answers and a path forward. Aslim’s mother, a physician, quickly sought the support and care her daughter needed, while the whole family rallied around her.
“Whenever I felt tired, my dad would carry me and pretend I was flying,” she recalls.
Today, Aslim uses a wheelchair, which she names after her favorite superheroes.
“I have three wheelchairs: Morgana, my first wheelchair, which is now retired after eight years; Shuri, my day-to-day chair; and Ramonda,” she says “They're all female superheroes who inspire me.”
Beyond her family, Aslim has also found a sense of belonging through the MPS community. Through local and international WhatsApp groups, she has built meaningful friendships with others living with MPS and found comfort in connecting with people who understand her experiences. Aslim especially enjoys encouraging others who are navigating life with MPS.
“When someone comes to me and asks how to get through it, I feel like a big sister,” she says.
Looking ahead, Aslim hopes to build a successful career in fashion while continuing to advocate for the MPS community around the world. By sharing her story, she hopes other people living with MPS know they are not alone and that their dreams remain possible.
“I want people, especially doctors, to understand that they shouldn't make assumptions,” she says. “MPS affects us all differently, so listen to us.”
For families and individuals navigating a new diagnosis, she offers a message of hope.
“It’s going to be okay, one way or another,” she says. “Even if you don't feel love or support right now, somewhere in the world, someone is cheering you on.”