The definition of dwarfism is Dwarfism is a condition of people and animals marked by unusually small size or short stature. In humans, it is sometimes defined as an adult height of less than 147 centimetres 4‘10“.
There are over 200 types of dwarfism in people.
The type of dwarfism that I have is called achondroplasia I am 4 feet tall . It is the most common type of dwarfism.
A lot of people define dwarfism as a disability because of the physical challenges it brings. For me, I don’t see dwarfism as a disability or as a challenge, it’s just something that made me who I am. I was taught at a young age to not let this hold me back, but to push me forward. My dwarfism has actually empowered me to do things I probably wouldn’t have done otherwise. For four years, I travelled Canada with a little person‘s basketball team called the Canadian Half Pints. Not only did I get to see this great country, but I got to talk to kids about bullying and giving them hope. That adventure led to me moving to Edmonton, which has been my home for 20 years. In time I’ve built a career in radio. I’m still a public speaker that talks to kids about bullying and I’ve entertained people in many different forms.
So when someone says that dwarfism is a disability in my mind, they could be no further from the truth. I love who I am. I’m a little person and I’m proud.
