Nora

Nora is 3. She has achondroplasia, the most common type of dwarfism. Achondroplasia is just one of hundreds of types of skeletal dysplasias. It is caused by a spontaneous genetic mutation at the time of conception between average height parents. When we first found out during pregnancy that there was a chance Nora would be born different, we researched and asked questions, but there were so many unknowns. There isn’t a ton of information. Once she arrived safely we knew everything would be okay. Her first year of life was full of so many appts, procedures, tests and worry. We just wanted to be sure we were on the right path and helping her the best way we knew how. Now are now 3 years into this journey of unexpected ups and downs. We still worry, but it’s different. Our biggest fear was (and is) how the world will treat our girl.

Achondroplasia makes Nora small. There are some medical complications and worries as well. However, Nora is just like any other 3 year old. She can do anything her average height peers can do, but may just need to do things a bit differently. She always finds her own way. Nora loves music, Mickey Mouse, her big brother, scooting, taking care of her babies, playing outside, helping feed her puppies, cooking with mom, snuggling, reading books and learning. She’s super smart and very curious.

Nora’s size is a very important part of her and I hope she’ll always embrace all of her differences but, I want her and the world to know that her size does not define her. I hope that when people look at my daughter, they see all of her...her beauty, her big blue eyes, her kind heart, her helping hands, her contagious laughter and bright smile, her strength...not only her size. If others can’t truly see her, they are missing out. She is amazing. I want the world to see that we are all more alike than different and that different is beautiful. Be kind. Teach respect. Encourage tolerance. Celebrate differences.