Ep 2. Series 9 Episode 2
Born to Be Different is a British documentary series that has been airing since 2003. The show follows a group of children with disabilities and chronic illnesses as they grow up and navigate the challenges of everyday life. Each episode gives viewers an intimate look at the children's lives, as well as the emotional toll their conditions take on their families.
In Series 9 Episode 2, we meet six-year-old Poppy, who was born with a rare genetic condition called Lissencephaly. This means that Poppy's brain did not develop folds or grooves, which can cause a range of physical and cognitive challenges. Poppy's mum, Sarah, says that she knew something was not quite right with her daughter from the moment she was born. Poppy had trouble feeding and was later diagnosed with epilepsy. Sarah says that the diagnosis was devastating, as it meant that Poppy's future was uncertain.
Despite these challenges, Poppy is a happy and affectionate little girl. She loves spending time with her family and playing with her toys. Poppy's parents have worked hard to give her a good quality of life, but they admit that caring for a child with a disability is not easy. Poppy requires round-the-clock care and her parents have to be vigilant about her health. Sarah says that she often feels guilty about not being able to give Poppy the same opportunities as her siblings, but she is determined to give her daughter the best life possible.
In this episode, we also meet eight-year-old Thomas, who has a rare condition called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP). This means that Thomas's muscles, tendons and ligaments turn into bone over time, causing stiffness, immobility and chronic pain. Thomas is one of only a handful of people in the UK who has this condition. His parents, Alison and Stuart, say that they had never even heard of FOP before Thomas was diagnosed. They describe the moment of diagnosis as "life-changing" and say that they were devastated by the prognosis.
Despite this, Thomas is an active and enthusiastic little boy. He loves playing with his younger brother and sister and has a particular passion for superheroes. Thomas struggles with everyday tasks like getting dressed and brushing his teeth, but his parents say that he never complains. Instead, he approaches each day with a positive attitude and a determination to make the most of his life.
The episode also features sixteen-year-old Conor, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This is a progressive genetic condition that causes the muscles to weaken and waste away over time. Conor is now confined to a wheelchair and relies on a ventilator to help him breathe. Despite this, he is a bright and engaging young man who is passionate about music. He plays the guitar and the piano and dreams of one day becoming a music producer.
Conor's parents say that they are incredibly proud of their son and all that he has achieved despite his condition. However, they admit that the reality of caring for a child with a life-limiting illness can be overwhelming. Conor's condition requires constant medical attention and his parents are acutely aware of the fact that his time with them is limited.
Born to Be Different is a moving and thought-provoking show that provides a rare glimpse into the lives of children who face daily challenges that most of us cannot even begin to imagine. Series 9 Episode 2 is a testament to the resilience and courage of these children and their families. It is a reminder that, no matter what our circumstances, we all have the capacity to find joy and meaning in our lives.
