The Man in an Iron Lung (A Polio Survivors Story) Special Books by Special Kids 2022-11-10 | Paul survived polio in the 1950's and has used an iron lung to breathe ever since. He would go on to college, while moving his iron lung into a dorm room, and eventually became a lawyer. Paul wants others to know that you just have to keep fighting because miracles can happen. Paul's Fundraiser: bit.ly/Help4PaulA Book Paul Wrote: amazon.com/Three-Minutes-Dog-Life-Iron/dp/152552531X
Living with a Mysterious Syndrome (Caused by Environmental Factors) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-10-17 | Jonathan lives with a mysterious illness that is believed to be caused by environmental factors. Professionals say his syndromes may be caused by the fact that he was born in a part of the world that is heavily polluted. Jonathan and his family want others to know that they are doing their best and they hope that you extend them grace.Support SBSK at patreon.com/c/sbsk
A Kid Whos Always Hungry (A Side Effect of Brain Surgery) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-10-15 | Wyatt was diagnosed with a brain tumor known as a hypothalamic hamartoma. After having surgery to remove this tumor, he is no longer able to control his appetite. Even a full meal will not satisfy his hunger because the part of the brain that regulates appetite was impacted during surgery. Doctors have even referred to this as "surgically induced Prader-Willi". Wyatt and his family want others to know that he is doing his best and they are proud of him. Support SBSK at patreon.com/sbskLearn more about hypothalamic hamartoma's at hopeforhh.org
The Worlds Most Honest Man (A Unique Life with Multiple Disabilities) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-10-10 | Colin is diagnosed with multiple disabilities that impact his processing time and social awareness. As a result, he can unintentionally offend others by being brutally honest. Colin, who cringes when he realizes that he has upset someone, wants others to know that he is coming from a place of love and would never hurt somebody’s feelings intentionally. Support SBSK and help us keep making these videos at patreon.com/sbsk
Siblings with Childhood Alzheimers (Roman and Stella) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-10-03 | Roman was diagnosed with childhood Alzheimer's (ASMD) a few days after his parents learned they were pregnant with Stella. This diagnosis came with the heavy knowledge that Stella had a 25% chance of inheriting the same life-altering condition. Stella was later diagnosed with this fatal disease. As both siblings face a devastating regression, their parents are focused on living in the moment and providing Roman and Stella with joyful memories while they all battle this rare disease together.Learn more about Roman and Stella and how to help at saveromanandstella.comSupport SBSK at patreon.com/sbsk
An Autistic College Student (Diagnosed at Age 20) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-09-26 | Jewel is an autistic college student who was diagnosed at age 20. Growing up, she felt like something was wrong with her and struggled to fit in with her peers. Jewel wants others to know that her autism diagnosis has allowed her to "understand and accept herself in a much deeper way".Support SBSK at patreon.com/sbskConnect with Jewel at instagram.com/autisticvintage
Born Without a Pivotal Part of the Brain (Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-09-19 | Silas was born without the part of the brain that connects the two hemispheres, a condition known as agenesis of the corpus callosum. As a result, he is unable to walk or talk and requires constant care. Silas' family wants others to know that he is worthy of love and friendship. Support SBSK at patreon.com/sbsk
The Future of this Channel Special Books by Special Kids 2024-09-16 | Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbsk
The Oldest Living Person with this Rare Genetic Condition Special Books by Special Kids 2024-09-12 | Anthony is the oldest known person living with multiple pterygium syndrome, a rare genetic condition. When he was young, doctors believed it was unlikely that Anthony would reach his 20s, but he is now a 40 year old college graduate who has been both married and divorced. Anthony wants others to know that you can overcome any obstacle as long as you take it day by day.Support SBSK at patreon.com/sbskFollow Anthony at instagram.com/hammett.anthony
A Child Who Hasn’t Spoken in 5 Years (A Mysterious Case Doctors Can’t Solve) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-09-05 | Easton was reaching the typical benchmarks for a child until he suddenly stopped talking, eating, and sleeping at the age of 4. His parents say that his personality and mannerisms completely changed over the course of a few days. They took him to countless doctors and geneticists, but have never found an answer. Easton is now 9 years old and hasn't spoken in 5 years. His family hopes that someone out there may have an answer to what is happening to their son.Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbsk
A Kid Mauled by 5 Pit Bulls (He Barely Survived) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-08-29 | JJ was attacked by 5 pit bulls and left near death when he was 22 months old. After miraculously surviving, he was left with severe disabilities and scarring. His life is now different than it was before the attack, but JJ and his family feel blessed that he is still alive. Support SBSK and help us keep making these videos at patreon.com/sbskFollow JJ and his family at instagram.com/babyjjsjourney
Living with Misophonia (Common Sounds Cause Her Extreme Pain) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-08-22 | Help support SBSK at patreon.com/sbskTaylor noticed at a young age that certain sounds, such as coughing or chewing, cause her both emotional and physical pain. She experienced a childhood filled with anxiety, wondering why such common sounds caused her extreme distress. This once mysterious condition is now known as misophonia, and Taylor is happy that it is finally being taken seriously.Follow Taylor at instagram.com/taylorbolton24
35 Inches Tall, 32 Years old, and 1 GIGANTIC Personality Special Books by Special Kids 2024-08-15 | Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbskNick is diagnosed with Primordial Dwarfism. At 32 years old, he stands 35 inches tall. His stature may be short, but Nick's personality is larger than life. This is the third SBSK video Nick has appeared in since we first met in 2018.
An Autistic Man and his Fiancé with ADHD Special Books by Special Kids 2024-08-08 | Support SBSK and help us keep making these videos at patreon.com/sbskConnect with Henry and Tiarra at https://linktr.ee/Coop_house30Henry is an autistic man with epilepsy and ADHD. Throughout his life, he was told that he will never amount to anything. His fiancé, Tiarra, is diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety. She has dealt with the same negativity. Together they are focused on creating a home filled with peace and love, free from the abuse they both experienced beforehand.
Living with One of a Kind Genetics (A Rare Form of Trisomy 18) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-08-05 | Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbskGeorgia is diagnosed with a rare form of Trisomy 18. People sometimes rudely say to her family, "It's selfish to keep her alive." Georgia's mom wants others to know that Georgia is happy to be alive and as long as she keeps fighting her family will be by her side.
A Woman Turning to Stone and Bedridden (But Still Happy) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-08-01 | Support SBSK an help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbskAshley's muscles and tendons have slowly been turning into bone her entire life due to a rare condition known as FOP. At age 42, she is bedridden and unable to move. Ashley is grateful to still be alive and wants others to know that, "This life is precious and short so you need to enjoy it while you are here."
Living with Psychosis and Constant Hallucinations Special Books by Special Kids 2024-07-25 | Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbskShelley experiences psychosis and constant hallucinations that started at the age of 39 after a miscarriage. Now 46, her hallucinations have only increased in frequency and intensity. Shelley wants others to know that she is a kind and empathetic person and that people that experience psychosis are not automatically dangerous.
Living with Harlequin Ichthyosis (Skin that Grows 10x Too Fast) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-07-18 | Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbskAnna is diagnosed with harlequin ichthyosis, resulting in skin that grows about 10x faster than what is considered typical. Now 6 years old, she is beginning to notice people staring and doesn't like it. Anna and her family want others to know that if you want to be Anna's friend just come say "hi" and talk to her about some of her favorite things, like unicorns and rainbows.This is the second time I've interviewed Anna. You can watch her first video at youtu.be/kY5pnevVgXU?feature=sharedFollow Anna and her family at instagram.com/harlequindiva/?hl=en
Blind, Autistic, and Lonely (She Just Wants a Friend) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-07-15 | Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/sbskKrystal is blind and autistic. She lives in a rural town and is unable to drive due to her blindness. Due to these circumstances, Krystal is forced to stay at home despite her goal of traveling and making friends. This has left her feeling lonely and craving human interaction. Krystal wants others to know that friendship is one of the greatest gifts a person can give.
Saying Goodbye to Our Best Friend Special Books by Special Kids 2024-07-02 | Noodle was a beloved part of our family and SBSK team. I really don't know if we would be where we are today as a channel and nonprofit without her. We will always remember her and be forever thankful our paths crossed for a beautiful decade together.
A Nonspeaking Disabled Teen (And How We Became Friends) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-06-27 | Cadence is diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder known as Angelman syndrome. She is nonspeaking and very social. Cadence and her family want others to know that a person can be nonspeaking and still love to be around others and interact in their own way.Support SBSK and help us continue to create these videos at patreon.com/sbsk
Severely Brain Injured by a Prescribed Medication Special Books by Special Kids 2024-06-20 | Elizabeth was a typically developing child until she started convulsing one night and went into a weeks long coma. Her parents believe this was caused by a medication that was prescribed to her for asthma. This resulted in a severe brain injury which left only a sliver of her cerebral cortex unaffected. Elizabeth's family wants others to know that even if their situation is unique, they are still a loving and caring family. Support SBSK and help us make these videos at patreon.com/sbsk
An Autistic Kid Who Needs Our Help to Survive Special Books by Special Kids 2024-06-13 | Massiah's Fundraiser: bit.ly/Home4MassiahMassiah is an autistic kid living in section 8 housing with his single mom named Takesha. They live in a crowded building with shared walls in every direction. Neighbors constantly complain about Massiah being loud, calling him a "bad kid". Takesha tries to appease her neighbors by preventing Massiah's stimming, but this often results in self-injurious behaviors. Takesha wants others to know that autistic children exist in low-income neighborhoods, and they aren't "bad kids".
The Return of Jeff (A Legend is Back) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-06-06 | Jeff is diagnosed with a rare disability known as Nager Miller syndrome. We first met when I was visiting a school for disabled children in 2017. Jeff, who uses assistive technology to communicate, was a volunteer in one of the classrooms. As I entered this class he handed me a note that said, "Will you interview me?" Since then we have been close friends and filmed several interviews together. This is our latest video together.Support SBSK and help us keep making these videos at patreon.com/SBSK
A 6 Year Old Who Has Broken 74 Bones (Shes 28 Inches Tall) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-05-23 | Autumn is 28 inches tall and has broken 74 bones at 6 years old due to a rare condition known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type VIII. She struggles to find friends and shares, "Some people don't let me play because of the way I am." Instead, she usually rides in her wheelchair up and down the ramp alone at recess. Autumn wants others to know that if you want to be her friend you just have to be nice. Support SBSK to help us keep creating these videos at patreon.com/SBSK
John Hudsons Big News (A New Treatment for a Horrible Condition) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-05-17 | Help Cure EB at give.ebresearch.org/johnhudson_sbsk John Hudson is diagnosed with epidermolysis bullosa, leaving him in a body covered in open wounds since he was an infant. He has advocated for a cure for this horrible condition since his youth, hoping that children in the future will never know the same pain that has left him bedridden. John and his advocacy were a contributing factor to the first ever FDA approved treatment for EB that was released to the public recently. This new development has given John hope that his efforts have been worthwhile and that a cure is still possible.
Living with one of the Worlds Rarest Syndromes (The Story of Sweet P) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-05-09 | P is diagnosed with a form of primordial dwarfism that only she is known to have. As a child, she loved to make silly sounds and play hide and seek with her friends. Now a teenager, P still enjoys the same activities but her same aged friends have moved on. P wants others to know that if you want to be her friend all you have to do is say "hi".Support SBSK and help us continue making these videos at patreon.com/SBSK
Living in a Body thats Melting (A Rare Connective Tissue Disorder) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-05-02 | Kayley is diagnosed with a rare connective tissue disorder known as Loeys-Dietz syndrome. This impacts every part of her body including the internal organs. People with Loeys-Dietz have a life expectancy of around 37 years old, and Kayley is a young adult in college. She has learned that it is okay to grieve a potentially shortened life, but Kayley is also dedicated to making the most of however many years she has on this earth.Consider supporting SBSK to help us continue creating these videos at patreon.com/SBSK
An Autistic Kid with OCD Who Just Wants a Best Friend Special Books by Special Kids 2024-04-25 | Olivia is an autistic kid with OCD who really wants a best friend. She sees other people becoming best friends and doesn't understand how they do it. Olivia's special interest is ophthalmology (the study of eyes) and she is confused why other children her age don't share the same passion for this topic. Olivia is hoping to make a best friend who enjoys discussing eyes.Support SBSK and help us continue at patreon.com/SBSK
The Son of a Schizophrenic Mom Who Believed Her Hallucinations Special Books by Special Kids 2024-04-18 | Chris is the son of a schizophrenic mom who believed her hallucinations and delusions were real. When he was a child, she would constantly tell him things like "There are demons around you, feasting on your soul." Now an adult who is diagnosed with schizophrenia, Chris struggles with the same delusions that his mother once believed, but is in treatment and trying to live a fulfilling life. Chris wants others to know that every person in this world is worthy of help and recovery. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSKA GoFundMe for Chris: gofund.me/3396161fChris' YouTube Channel (He said he would post here if there was enough demand): youtube.com/@christragesser_ Email Chris at christragkb@gmail.com
The Story of Sunny (A Kid with Williams Syndrome) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-04-11 | Sunny is diagnosed with Williams syndrome, a condition that is known to create a friendly and happy demeanor. She loves to spend time with her family and wants to be friends with everyone she meets. Sunny wants others to know that, "You are the best!" and "Love is everything!" Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
A Child Left to Die Because the Cure Wasn’t Profitable (And How You Can Help) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-04-04 | Max was born with TBCD, a rare genetic condition that leaves children with a life expectancy of about 5 years old. His family was told a cure was not possible because it is not profitable for pharmaceutical companies to cure a rare disability. Helena, Max’s mom, started asking for donations online to fund research that could potentially save Max’s life. This research has started and is looking hopeful, but the situation has left Max’s family wondering how the USA government can spend trillions of dollars on war while leaving disabled children to die when a cure is possible. Contribute to a cure for TBCD at give.nationwidechildrens.org/TBCD_BradburyTo donate directly to Max: www.MiracleForMax.comTo learn about TBCD: www.TBCDFoundation.org
An Autistic Kid with a Genius IQ Special Books by Special Kids 2024-03-28 | Ana is an autistic kid with a genius IQ. She also has a physical disability known as arthrogryposis. At 8 years old, Ana wants to become an astrophysicist and study space. Many people tell her, "You are too smart to be autistic!" but Ana wants others to know that a person can be both highly intelligent and autistic.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSKFollow Ana's family at @AMCPrincessAna Ana's family's nonprofit: amcprincessana.com/hamcf
An Autistic Woman who was Misdiagnosed and Wrongfully Medicated for a Decade Special Books by Special Kids 2024-03-21 | Kassondra is an autistic woman who was not diagnosed until adulthood. As a child, she was misdiagnosed as bipolar and wrongfully medicated for a decade. This caused her to become withdrawn and isolated. After receiving the proper diagnosis, Kassondra is now learning to love and accept her autistic self.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSKKassondra's YouTube Channel: @kassi4837A channel Kassondra highly recommends about tapering off meds: youtube.com/@taperclinic
A Child with Rett Syndrome (Esther the Quiet Queen) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-03-14 | Esther is diagnosed with Rett syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that impacts the brain. Her family refers to her as the "Quiet Queen" because she is nonspeaking yet still loves to be involved and included. Esther's family wants others to know that she is smart and can understand what you are saying.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSKHelp Cure Rett syndrome at reverserett.orgEsther's Family's Blog: facebook.com/quietqueenesther
A Mom with Postpartum Depression Special Books by Special Kids 2024-03-07 | Kerilyn is diagnosed with postpartum depression and anxiety. She feels guilty for experiencing a deep sadness after the birth of her daughter. Kerilyn tries to hide her feelings, but senses that others can see her struggles. Although she often feels invisible, Kerilyn wants others with postpartum depression to know they are not alone.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
The Story of Piper (The Only Known Case with her Rare Genetics) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-02-29 | Piper is a nonspeaking child with two rare genetic conditions. She has learned to communicate by humming songs that are relevant to her mood. For example, when Piper is joyful she hums, "If You're Happy and You Know It". Piper's family wants others to know that her form of communication is valid.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
A Teenager with Dementia and his Loving Family Special Books by Special Kids 2024-02-22 | Michael is diagnosed with a form of childhood dementia known as Hunter syndrome. He is progressively losing the ability to communicate as his health declines. His family is working to find new ways to connect with him, like through singing and dancing. Michael has already surpassed the life expectancy for Hunter syndrome, so he and his family are focused on enjoying every day they get together.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSKfacebook.com/Miracle4MichaelInc
Two Autistic Teen Orphans (A Story of Resilience and Survival) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-02-15 | Melina and Deimos are both autistic teen orphans and siblings. After surviving a traumatic childhood, they both were diagnosed with multiple mental health disorders. Melina says, "I haven't been living, but only surviving my whole life." She hopes that others will be nice instead of calling her weird. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSKMelina's IG: instagram.com/mothrelicsDeimos' IG: instagram.com/veryhotpocket
The Tallest Kid in the World (A 10-Year-Old with Gigantism) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-02-08 | Jase is diagnosed with gigantism and is the tallest kid in the world. At 10-years-old he is already 6'3". He loves to dominate in sports against his peers while standing tall above everyone else. Jase wants others to know that it is okay to embrace yourself exactly as you are.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
Brain Injured by a Kiss (The Danger of Kissing a Baby) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-02-01 | Breelynn was born a healthy baby but was kissed by a person with a cold sore as an infant. Since her immune system was not developed, this infection attacked her brain and left her with a severe traumatic brain injury. Now 8 years old, Breelynn is unable to walk or talk and is not expected to live into adulthood. Breelynn's family wants others to know that there is real danger in kissing a baby, especially on the mouth. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
An Autistic Marriage (A Unique Love Story) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-01-25 | Rachael and Griffin are both autistic and lovingly married. They prefer to live and sleep in separate homes, because that is the routine that works for them. Their marriage may be unique, but their love and commitment to one another is lifelong. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSKLearn more about Rachael, Griffin, and their future plans at rachaelsfarmandgardens.com
A Kid with Tourettes, OCD, and Anxiety Special Books by Special Kids 2024-01-18 | Benvolio is diagnosed with Tourette's, OCD, and anxiety. His tics started when he was just 2 years old, but were first misdiagnosed. Benvolio wants others to know that you can still accomplish great things while living with Tourette syndrome. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
Living with Trisomy 18 (An Extra 18th Chromosome) Special Books by Special Kids 2024-01-11 | Heidi was born with an extra 18th chromosome, a condition known as Trisomy 18. After she was diagnosed in-utero, her parents were told that she "wouldn't be very human-like". They decided to just love Heidi unconditionally. Heidi is now 6 years old and her family is proud of everything she does, like using sign language to communicate.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
Who Wants to Interview in Southern USA? Special Books by Special Kids 2024-01-07 | You can send your interview request to me at interview@sbsk.org Please include your city and state in the subject of the email. Also include a paragraph or 2 describing your story. Feel free to include a photo if you'd like. I look forward to meeting many of you in the coming months!
A Child with Dementia and her Loving Sister Special Books by Special Kids 2024-01-04 | Help cure Sanfilippo syndrome at https://CureSFF.org/SpecialBooksBelle is diagnosed with a form of childhood dementia known as Sanfilippo syndrome. As a result her life expectancy is in the teens and she is slowly losing cognitive and physical abilities. Belle's sister, Arden, was confused why they could no longer play together on the playground. But now that she understands the reality of Sanfilippo syndrome, Arden just hopes Belle knows that she is "loved more than sugar pie".
Best Friends with Down Syndrome Special Books by Special Kids 2023-12-21 | Mack and Teagan are best friends who are both diagnosed with Down syndrome. They lovingly refer to each other as "besties" and "twinsies". Mack and Teagan say they will be best friends until they are 100 years old, at which point they plan to drive around and get coffee together.Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Type 1) Special Books by Special Kids 2023-12-14 | Isaac is diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (type 1). This leaves him with almost no muscular movement, causing him to be a wheelchair and ventilator user. Isaac wants others to know that his life is normal to him, and he likes who he is. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
Living with Severe Brain Damage (Caused by Meningitis) Special Books by Special Kids 2023-12-07 | Xoey acquired meningitis in her first few days of life which resulted in global brain damage. She was not expected to survive the week, but is now 6 years old and surrounded by her family who loves her unconditionally. Xoey's family wants others to know that her life is different, but it can still be a good one. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
Autistic Twins with High Support Needs Special Books by Special Kids 2023-11-16 | Dominic and Emmet are autistic nonspeaking twins with high support needs. While these brothers are both autistic, they are also different in many ways. Emmet loves to run around and jump on his trampoline while Dominic can often be found relaxing in a beanbag with his noise cancelling headphones. The twins' parents want others to know that raising autistic siblings can be both challenging and beautiful. patreon.com/SBSK
A Child Who Cant Speak or Blink (And How He Communicates Anyway) Special Books by Special Kids 2023-11-09 | Prince was born with a rare neuromuscular disorder known as X-linked myotubular myopathy. This prevents him from speaking, blinking, walking, and eating. He is currently learning to communicate with assistive technology and enjoys connecting with his family. Prince wants others to know that he loves making new friends and talking about animals. Support SBSK at patreon.com/SBSK
