PORTLAND (AP) – Shiloh Pepin, a young girl who captured the hearts of many on the Internet and U.S. television, has passed away at the age of 10. Shiloh was born with a rare condition known as "mermaid syndrome," where her legs were fused together. Despite initial predictions from doctors that she would only survive for a few days after birth, Shiloh defied the odds and became an inspiration to many.

Tragically, Shiloh passed away at Maine Medical Center on Friday afternoon, after being hospitalized in critical condition for nearly a week. Her story had touched the lives of countless people who had followed her journey and celebrated her strength and determination. Shiloh's legacy will continue to inspire others, reminding us all of the incredible resilience and spirit that can be found in the face of adversity.

Shiloh Pepin, a young girl from Kennebunkport, was born with a rare condition known as sirenomelia or "mermaid syndrome." This condition meant that she had only one partially functioning kidney, no lower colon or genital organs, and her legs were fused together from the waist down. Despite these significant challenges, Shiloh remained an extraordinary and resilient individual who touched the hearts of many. Her story of courage and determination continues to inspire others, serving as a reminder of the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.

While some children with sirenomelia have undergone surgery to separate their fused legs, Shiloh Pepin did not have this option due to the complex nature of her condition. The presence of blood vessels crossing from side to side in her circulatory system made it impossible to perform the separation without severe consequences. Instead, Shiloh received two kidney transplants, with the most recent one taking place in 2007. Despite the physical challenges she faced, Shiloh's strength and resilience shone through, and she continued to inspire others with her remarkable spirit.

Shiloh's remarkable story captured the attention of national television programs, including "The Oprah Winfrey Show," as well as other media outlets. However, recently, her mother, Leslie Pepin, shared that Shiloh developed a cold which quickly progressed to pneumonia. On October 10, Shiloh was urgently admitted to Maine Medical Center, where she received treatment with antibiotics and was placed on a ventilator.

Shiloh, a fifth-grader at Kennebunkport Consolidated School, had a radiant personality that brightened the entire school community. Maureen King, Chairwoman of the regional school district board, fondly recalls Shiloh's presence in the building. In light of this tragic loss, counselors will be available next week to provide support for the students.

Shiloh's story reached countless individuals through television shows, news articles, Facebook, and various websites, inspiring and touching many lives. One such message came from 12-year-old Lydia Dawley, who resides in Iowa and has cerebral palsy. Lydia expressed her admiration for Shiloh on Facebook, stating that she loved Shiloh's videos and wished they could be friends and spend time together. Shiloh's bravery served as an eye-opener for Lydia, reminding her of the strength that resides within.

Shiloh's legacy will endure, touching the hearts of those fortunate enough to have encountered her story. Her journey stands as a powerful reminder of resilience, strength, and the profound impact one can make in the face of significant challenges.

May Shiloh find eternal peace, and may her family find solace and support during this challenging period. Her memory will continue to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the extraordinary spirit that resides within us all.