Five-year-old Gwendolyn Kramer has a very unique story, and junior Tate Cross has been there for her every step of the way, playing a very special part in her life.

Gwen was born on September 23, 2014, and perfect in every way. At only a few weeks of age, her health complications began. Gwen’s parents and family friends prayed for the best, but things took a turn for the worse the day they found out her illness was terminal.

When she turned five months old, doctors were able to identify her abnormal brain MRI. The neurology team at the hospital called Gwendolyn’s case extremely “rare and complex.” Very soon after that, she was given the diagnosis of an undiagnosed neurological condition that would make her legally blind and severely impact her ability to walk, talk and eat or drink by mouth. Since then, Gwen’s condition has gotten worse, and her diagnosis has been switched to progressive and degenerative. Gwen and her parents take nothing for granted and cherish each and every moment with each other.

Tate Cross is a junior here at St. Dominic, and he has played an incredible role in Gwen’s life. Tate was very excited when the Kramer’s moved in next door six years ago. Right after Gwendolyn was born, he often would go over to their house and spend time with her. Since the beginning, Tate has been by Gwen’s side through it all, and he is practically a part of the Kramer family. He has watched Gwen grow up over the past five years and has greatly contributed to her foundation, Gwendolyn’s Gifts.

“Erin [Gwen’s mom] has always said we are going to give her the best life we can. That has inspired me in many ways such as sharing a smile with someone because every time I see Gwen she makes my day better by giving me a smile,” Tate said.

At St. Joseph Cottleville, Tate’s grade school, Tate sold bracelets and t-shirts saying “Team Gwen,” raising money for Gwendolyn. He also attended the Delta Gamma Walk, which is a fundraiser supporting vision in young kids.

There is also a more recent story of a heartwarming way Tate has touched Gwen’s life. For her fifth birthday, Gwen was able to check something very special off her bucket list: go on her first date! Tate and Gwen have been connected since the day Gwen was born, but she had never gone on a “date” with him before.

Excitedly, Gwen picked out her brand new leopard print dress she had received for her birthday and put her hair up in a cute ponytail with a big black bow to match her black shoes. The couple spent the first 15 minutes taking proper first date pictures and hanging out.

Next on the agenda for the night: a car ride. Tate pulled up in his freshly washed car, inside and out, playing “Sweet Gwendolyn” (Gwen’s very own song from her Make-A-Wish experience). Gwen’s mom gushed as she explained how Gwen rested her head on Tate and had the world’s largest smile during her ride. To wrap up the wonderful evening, Tate “walked” Gwen to the door.

“One thing I would like everyone to know about Gwen is that she is an incredible, strong little girl who will never give up or fail to make me smile,” Tate said.

Gwendolyn Kramer is a superhero each and every day as she continues to fight and beat the odds. She constantly teaches those around her to never take the smallest things in life for granted. Gwen may not be able to communicate through words, see well, or walk without assistance, but she is enjoying every moment of life and spreading smiles by her infectious joy.