We Were Told Not to Have Children Because of Our Dwarfism, but Chose to Start a Family Anyway

Dwarfism, a rare condition that affects about 1 in 15,000 to 1 in 40,000 people, often results in discrimination and societal neglect. However, more individuals with dwarfism are courageously sharing their personal stories to confront and reduce the stigma surrounding the condition.

They got married in 2012.

Charli, an Australian woman with achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism, married Cullen in 2012. Cullen, who has achromic dysplasia, a condition that impacts his physical growth, shared Charli’s dream of starting a family from the beginning.

However, they both harbored concerns about the challenges of childbirth and the potential of passing on their conditions to their children, which left them uncertain and fearful for several years. Despite these apprehensions, Charli discovered she was pregnant for the first time in 2015.

Doctors advised her not to proceed with the pregnancy.

Doctors informed the family that there was a 25% chance of having a child with typical height and an equal likelihood of a child not surviving. Charli explained that if they decided to have children, there was a possibility of the children inheriting both forms of dwarfism, which often results in fatal outcomes. However, during the initial stages of the pregnancy, the couple underwent genetic testing to ensure this scenario did not occur. “I’ve copped criticism for choosing to have babies with these odds,” Charli shared.

The news was uplifting. Baby Tilba, similar to Charli’s mother and brother (while her father had an average stature), was also diagnosed with achondroplasia. Medical experts cautioned that she might experience spinal complications; however, overall, she was anticipated to lead a healthy life.

Their story attracted widespread attention online.

After Tilba’s birth, the family initiated an Instagram account to combat dwarfism prejudice, chronicling their journey — highlighting both successes and setbacks. “I remember when Tilba was born, all I wanted was to get through those newborn weeks,” Charli admitted.

Despite facing some online criticism, the couple continues to share glimpses of their joyful moments, firmly standing by their decision not to let their dwarfism limit their lives. Whether it’s photos from beach trips, relaxing lunches in the sun, workout routines, walks, or updates on Tilba’s growth, their images reflect the life of an ordinary family, just like any other.

The family welcomed more babies into their lives.

In 2018, Charli found out she was expecting a second child, who inherited the condition from the father. Then, in 2020, Charli became pregnant for the third time. To the couple’s great joy, their newborn was born with an “average” stature and did not inherit the physical traits of the parents.

However, what should have been moments of wonder turned into a nightmare for Charli. Their journey was an emotional roller coaster. During her third pregnancy, she openly expressed her longing for the process to be over. She recounted dealing with discomfort, nausea, and fainting spells. Throughout each pregnancy, Charli had to endure painful genetic testing. One procedure involved a “massive needle through my abdomen to take a sample of placenta that carries a 2% rate of miscarriage.”

At present, they are living life to the fullest.

Charli often posts lighthearted moments that highlight their height differences, such as fun oversized clothing or the occasional challenges they face in everyday activities, all while maintaining a playful attitude toward her stature.

Though they occasionally encounter negative comments, Charli has learned to rise above them, recognizing that most of their followers visit to offer warmth and admiration. She has also noticed a significant increase in followers over the past year, reflecting a growing interest in their journey.

And here’s the story of a man who was called “stupid” for marrying a woman with dwarfism, yet their love story is truly one-of-a-kind.