CINCINNATI — Powerlifter Taylor Gatherwright, 16, could be poised to break some adult records. 

She's 4-feet-9, weighs 114 pounds and can squat at least 220 pounds. And she's only been lifting since March, when she sought refuge in the gym after doctors told her she could no longer ride horses or engage in most other sports.

What You Need To Know

  • Taylor Gatherwright is expectd to break state powerlifting records

  • She weighs only 114 pounds but can squat 220 pounds

  • Taylor was bedridden for more than a year because of a rare condition called "Nutcracker Syndrome"

She's competing against adults in Columbus on Sunday and is expected to break the Ohio squat record for women in her weight class. 

Gatherwright is dealing with a rare condition called “Nutcracker Syndrome,” which affects a vein to her kidney.

“It made her very, very ill and she was literally in bed for a year and a half unable to do anything,” said Cindy Gatherwright, Taylor’s mom.  

“I’d get so mad because I couldn't get out of bed and when I would, I’d feel sick or be in pain,” Taylor said.     

After two surgeries and a trip to the Mayo Clinic, Taylor finally started getting better. That’s when doctors told her she can no longer ride horses or play most sports.   

So she hit the gym with her older brother, Chandler. Her family thinks sibling rivalry’s the reason she pushed herself to lift heavy weights. 

She approached fitness coach and powerlifting competitor Drake Eaton to train her. They hit the weights twice a week. Taylor said their sessions are as much mental training as physical.

“It has a lot to do with being in the right mindset and having the confidence,” Taylor said. “Drake has been one of my biggest inspirations since I started doing powerlifting and I’m just so grateful for him.”

“Taylor is stronger than the majority of men I’ve known in my life,” Eaton said.  “She’s not only in body but also in mind.”

Eaton said Taylor exemplifies grit and strength of character. 

“She always has a positive attitude no matter what she’s been through in life,” Eaton said. 

“Just never give up,” Taylor said.  “Even if you feel like you’re at the lowest you could possibly get, don’t give up and keep going.”