Kendalyn Illu has been through a lot in her nine years. She has “the most tender heart,” according to her mom, due in part to all she has overcome. Born with complete intestinal failure, Kendalyn relies on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). She has never been able to eat food in the traditional sense, and she faces chronic pancreatitis and lung disease. She typically spends two to three months of the year at Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital.

While at the hospital, Kendalyn stays occupied with crafts and toys provided by her Child Life therapists. Since she’s often in a lot of pain but only able to take over-the-counter pain medication, she regularly receives acupuncture and massage therapy. She also uses a wheelchair when walking becomes too painful.

Despite her body not working the way it’s supposed to, Kendalyn has done ballet for most of her life. She loves playing with friends and participates in her school’s robotics club. She’s also passionate about educating her classmates about what it means to have medical complexities.

Kendalyn has a close bond with her service dog, Reggie, who acts as an additional alert system for blood sugar and TPN leaks. Reggie goes everywhere with Kendalyn, often dressed in a pink vest, painted nails and a bow in his hair. With Reggie at her side, Kendalyn continues to be a bubbly, happy-go-lucky kid pursuing what she loves.