Born to Be Different

Six to Seven Years Old

People

Friday 24 April 2009

Learn how all the children are getting on as they reach six and seven years old.

 

Emily is just beginning to become more aware of how her Spina Bifida is making her different from the other children at school. Doubly incontinent, Emily and her parents are set for a battle on whether or not she should have major surgery to cure her incontinence.


 
Zoe's Arthrogryposis has meant she now needs a wheelchair on occasions which has upset her mother. She's fearful that Zoe's problems, particularly with her left foot, may mean she will need a wheelchair full-time.


 
Shelbie continues to be in and out of hospital due to a rare chromosome disorder called Patrial Trisomy 9P. She has been close to death several times. Her mother Vicky is now pregnant again knowing that there is a 50:50 risk of her new baby having the same illness. Whatever happens though Vicky is determined to keep caring for Shelbie at home.


 
William continues to need constant attention with his Tuberous Sclerosis. His mother's parents have moved closer to support her. As a result of this extra help, William's parents now felt able to add to their family and Paula is pregnant. She is soon to go for genetic testing but is getting worried about possible new tumours on William's right leg.


 
Hamish has Achondroplasia, or dwarfism. The family has moved to Auckland in New Zealand and Hamish has made some very good and loyal friends. Like most children he is not looking forward to going back to school but being only 3ft tall compared to his 4ft friends doesn't seem to be a problem.


 
Nathan has a starring role in this year's Downs Syndrome Association's calendar. His parents are worried about his tongue constantly sticking out and are talking about the option of surgery to reduce its size, not least because it hinders his speech.

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  1. I have followed these families with great admiration and really wanted to congratulate Shelbie`s mother for the way she has dealt with everything. When I first saw Shelbie I never would have imagined how much progress she was capable of. The whole family obviously help and love her and she has become very responsive in return.It is wonderful to see
    Posted by marialex on 23/06/2009 15:17:00
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  2. Absolutely amazed by the courage and energy of the children and their parents. What a fantatsic programme- truly humbling and inspiring.
    Posted by chris on 22/06/2009 19:51:53
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  3. I think it is so important for people to get to know the real people behind anyone who is different for whatever reason, be it race, sexual orientation, class, disability etc. Once you realize everyone has their own individual unique make up, but is still a human being, whatever their situation, then acceptance will follow. Channel 4 are doing a brilliant job of educating all who watch the programmes. I pray for the children and their families as they work their way through their problems.Vicky is especially amazing and the love the family has for Shelbie is a joy to see.I'm looking forward to the next programme and hoping and praying everyone is o.k.
    Posted by ALISON HALL on 05/06/2009 01:12:34
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  4. I love this programme, The children and their families are a true inspiration. It puts life's little worries and problems into perspective. Cant wait for the next programme and to see what their lives bring. xxx
    Posted by Lyndsay on 27/05/2009 22:08:53
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  5. I just have to say i think all these people are amazing but Vicky... Oh my god you are truly an amzing person, after hearing that from the doctor... I was in tears for you and your family and i tell you i would definatly have done the same... I wish you all the best and i think you are all so inspiring... God bless you all xxx
    Posted by Samantha Lowe on 20/05/2009 23:10:20
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  6. I love this programme, I have a 2yr old son who has Downs Syndrome and In tears everytime. I cant wait to see what happens in the next years of these beautiful kids lives.
    Posted by Louise on 13/05/2009 23:14:39
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  7. I just love the programme i think the kids are wonderful in the way they cope with there dissabilities,i hope the operation on Zoes arm is succesful she is such a brave little girl,makes it all the better to have such a lovely caring Mum.carry on the good work its great watching the kids grow up.
    Posted by Janet on 12/05/2009 08:39:42
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  8. I missed the last program but when my health visitor came, she told me all about Zoe and her arthrogryposis and how she delt with it amazes me. As a new mother of a son with the same condition and severity as zoe i understand exactly how she and her mother feels. Its very hard for me personally thinking that maybe when Harry is older he may need full time care with dressing, feeding, and help getting around. I think Zoe is a star for dealing with it the way she does and a round of applause for Zoe's mum she's got the currage from some were you are a true insparation to me and my partner.
    Posted by lisa&harry on 07/05/2009 13:59:07
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  9. Congratulations to all these families who have been brave enough to participate in this milestone in commercial viewing. In my opinion, this series is vital viewing for all parents, with and without a child with special needs. I am in complete awe of these wonderful parents, even though we have been through their battle (still ongoing!!) as our son was born with Down's Syndrome 36 years ago, in 1973. Our initial aim was to cut through society's perception of DS and other's with special needs. This has been achieved to some small extent, still more needs to be done - take note Channel 4 (life gets much harder the older your son/daughter - unfortunately, society is less accomodating) Love and blessings to all the children and their marvellour families... and Well done Channel 4 ! Annette
    Posted by annette on 06/05/2009 19:05:40
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  10. this programe was very good and showed disability in a great and positive light. I suffer from Spinabifida and Hydrochepulue and i am amazed just how much medicine has advanced even in my short 23yrs alive. Keep us up date with all the kids progress
    Posted by Sicknote on 05/05/2009 23:13:54
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