TAR Syndrome is a rare disability that a person has at birth. Each person with TARs have unique personalities and have the opportunity to live amazing lives! Many of these people that I have meet are known to be extremely determined, stubborn, independent, humorous and creative. They are people who live life to fullest despite that medical view of TAR Syndrome.

The diagnosis of TAR Syndrome (Thrombocytopenia absent radius) is given when there is the absence of both radii with the presence of the thumbs and dramatically reduced platelet count.  The life expectancy of a person with TAR Syndrome is the same as anyone else. The main concern with thrombocytopenia is that it can lead to bruising and potential life threatening hemorrhage. There are many other possible abnormalities that are common with TAR Syndrome.

TAR Syndrome can have additional skeletal defects, allergy or intolerance to cow’s milk, and congenital heart defects. Along with the radii absence, ulna can be absent or shorten. The radius is the long bone on the thumb side of the forearm and the ulna is the long bone on the little finger side of the forearm. In some the upper arm, humerus, may be shorten or absent. About 50% that are affected have differences in the legs and feet. The knee joint may be fused and there can be the absence of the knee cap along with the dislocation of the hips.

The lives of people living with TARs are often amazing. We have go to college, work full-time, get married and have families. We have amazing friendships, hobbies and involvement in sports. We live our lives to the fullest!