About Bri and Brad
Bridgette |
Brad |
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For those inquiring on how you can helpPlease CLICK HERE to learn more about the added expenses in the lives of primordial dwarves and how you can contribute. |
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About MOPD II
Bridgette and Brad have Majewski osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II and were involved in the following research:
Majewski osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPD II): Natural history and clinical findings
Judith G. Hall, Christina Flora, Charles I. Scott Jr, Richard M. Pauli, Kimi I. Tanaka
American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A
Volume 130A, Issue 1, 2004. Pages 55-72
Copyright © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Abstract
BRIDGETTE
Bridgette was born 06/09/1989
She was 800 grams (1 pound and 12 ounces)
Height 12 1/2 inches long
She is now 22 years of age.
She is 27 inches tall and weighs 19 pounds.
She is in her second year of college attends a local community college.
Bridgette enjoys cheerleading, talking on her cell phone, surfing the internet (shopping), church youth group and hanging out with her friends and family.
Bridgette has encountered many medical obstacles. All of which she has found challenging but makes the best of what she has. Bridgette has a tracheotomy that was placed at 6 months of age. She was unable to speak until she had reconstructive surgery. Speech is no longer the problem. Her size is significantly smaller than Brad’s so keeping up when walking is hard work. She has scoliosis, knee and hip abnormalities. Bri wears glasses and dentures. NONE of the this slows her down she is such a great girl.
Bri’s self image is wonderful. She wants to be a model. She loves the way she looks.
BRAD
Bradley was born 7/11/91
He weighed 2 pounds 4 ounces
length 13 1/2 inches tall.
Brad is now 20 and is 38 inches tall. He weighs about 34 pounds.
Brad enjoys karate, skateboarding, tumbling, cheerleading, golfing and any other sport. He played basketball and soccer at the National LPA conference. Brad now is on the college cheer squad and a college cheer competitions squad.
Brad loves talking on his cell, playing computer and video games and hanging out with friends.
Brad has had a brain aneurysm rupture that was clipped in 2008. He had moya moya and resulted in bypass surgery to improve blood supply to the brain. He is being evaluated for kidney failure and only has one working kidney. He wears glasses and dentures. We are going to be evaluated for implants for both he and Bri in time. Their dentures cost thousands of dollars and implants will be thousands more. However, it is part of their life and good health.
Brad also has great self image. He is very PROUD of his accomplishments but has matured sooooo much that he now handles it with social grace!!
They have an older sister Brandi of average size. They are the Aunt and Uncle of Baili (6) and Abi (2). Abi is 2 years old and is bigger than Bri. Baili and Abi have progressed quickly with mobility and problem solving by watching Brad and Bri!!
If You Would Like to Help
For those who have inquired on how you can help, we sincerely thank you. The expenses involved are prohibitive for a single-mom, but Christy (Bri and Brad’s Mom) ensure they never go without even while the debt continues to stack. For these reasons, a trust has been established for Bridgette and Brad to cover medical and everyday expenses involved in the lives of little people.
Medical:
- Both need new glasses and the family does not have vision insurance, last time they cost $300 a piece.
- Bri has medical expenses for her trach that insurance doesn’t cover.
- We go to LPA Nationals every year which is where we meet up with the specialists for clinic.
General:
Both Bri and Brad have bedrooms specially built for them, each of their bedrooms had to be custom-built with the following:
- Low Doorknobs
- Lowered Closet Fixtures and Shelving
Throughout the rest of the house:
- Lightswitches at their level in areas
- Our kitchen really needs redone, but they make do with a small refridge and standing in chairs
- Even simple things, like kitchen chairs are often too big
Can you imagine standing up and eating your meals? Bri is too old for high chairs and booster seats but can’t reach the table when sitting. How about not being able to turn on the kitchen light or open a soda. These are everyday things she faces. Baili (her niece) called 911 accidently when she was barely one year old because the phone was down so Bri could reach it. Everyone said well put the phone up so Baili can’t get it but then that means neither can Bri who’s seventeen. The solution seemed easy to keep it out of Baili’s reach but deprived Bri of using the phone.
Miscellany:
- Clothing adaptions. All of Brad & Bri’s competitive and team uniforms are adapted just for them. Emblems etc are too big to scale and Bri’s have to be hand made to match the team.
- Brad’s tumbling expenses average over $100 a month not counting travel. This is so important for his physical fitness along with the fact that he enjoys it. This is something he can compete among his peers with.
- Brad went to a summer camp in California for little people. This is the first camp that he was able to safely attend for it is only for little people and has great counselor ratios. The camp was free but we (Brad and I) will have to travel to CA just for him to go.
Thank You
Your benevolence is cherished and we cannot thank you enough for your kindness! Your generosity makes life easier and more enjoyable for these rare and beautiful kids and for that, we thank you profusely!
Christy, you family is a true example for others having some disability to follow. I feel proud on Bri and Brad. May Allah protect them and give them more strenght and healthy life. With best wishes
Syed Khurram , pakistan
I remember seeing the documentary a few years ago and being so impressed with the determination and positivity that these two young adults had. It’s great to see them continuing with their goals.
Next time my son complains of having a disability, I will bring him to this site and show him what true heroism is. To adapt, to continue fighting to achieve their goals, their plans and to do so with spirit, good-hearts and determination.
They are role-models for many young adults. My good-wishes to the whole family, for health, happiness, and faith.
Kathy
Hi Bridg and Brad !
We saw you on french television, and we just want to told you, you are exceptional, really !…
Hugs and Kisses from Paris to you !
Hello BrI and Brad !!!
I just saw a program on your life on French TV, I live in Paris … it’s such a great thing to see you guys on TV , and your fabulous mom , you make a fabulous family something that not everybody has … have fun and love your lovely mom and come to Paris sooon, the most beautiful city in the world !!!!
Bisou ( kiss in French :-))
Hello,
(First, please, excuse my bad english!)
I’m a french girl and I’m 15 years old.
I saw a report of your children yesterday, and it touched me, so much.
I admire the strength of your children in front of their disease. I wish them good courage and a lot of happiness for their future life.
All the best
christy you are a remarkable mother and your children are very brave!I wish you and your children a great happiness and success (I love the pink dress bridgette)
christy vous êtes une mère remarquable et vos enfants sont très courageux!!!
je vous souhaite tout le bonheur pour vous et vos enfant!
Bonjour Christy, Bridgette & Brad
I’m Alyssa, I come from Belgium! I saw you on a french TV yesterday. First, I just want to tell you that you’re a wonderful family! And sorry for my bad english!
But I don’t know how to explain but… Watching you on TV makes me thing : Actually, I have several tests at University so it’s a hard period, I mean I’m all the time nervous and pessimistic! And seeing how you’re courageous, you have plenty of energy,… I was so touched! Because you’re a picture of joy! And so I regain self-confidence! I stop to complain!
Thank you for you smiles and happiness !!!
Bridgette & Brad you’re both a source of pride & joy! Christy, you can be proud of your children
Best wishes for 2011 !
Bonjour à vous 3 ,je vous ai vu dans une émission hier soir et franchement chapeau.Nous,les etres humains “normaux” on va dire sans vous blesser on se plaint toujours pour rien et deux petits bouts de femme et homme qui se battent avec tout ce qu’ils ont comme problémes,bravo,meme réussir ses études ,vous venez de nous montrer un grand coup d’intelligence et d’humilité ,vous m’avez aussi mis une claque et merci,j’ai des problèmes mais rien à coté de vous,SOYEZ FIERS DE VOUS ET DE VOTRE MERE,BRAVO A ELLE ,longue vie à vous vous y avez droit,vous pouvez me contacter,j’en serais ravi,je suis une mére sans problème,bonne année 2011
I saw you yesterday on a french tv show.
I just want to say that you can be proud of your children and they can be proud of you.
Your family is amazing !!!
Best wishes for 2011. A lot of health and kisses from Switzerland.
Andy
hello, I allow myself to write to you because I saw your report on TF1, it has me enormously especially emu when you cried has the end. I am French and mom of 3 children, I am 35 years old. I wanted to tell you that your children are very beautiful and that your daughter is very beautiful and that it my emue. You do not occupy of the glance of the others because your children are splendid. I transmit my coordinates to you, if you want to have a contact and I would introduce my family to you and we would be charmed to know you (ntournet@wanadoo.fr) I to espère¨avoir of your news and I wish you all the happiness of the world. I address to you full with kisses of France and I tell you has soon. And still cheer has to you all ……..
I saw you on TV recently, I just want to say that you are really amazing, you can be proud of you, you deserve all the better things in the world. It’s very beautiful to see your hapiness. Thank you really.
From France
Hi! I came from France and i Want to say you thank you: your happiness is very wonderful! France loves U!
I just want to say thank you. Your children have given me so much hope as far as the health of my own sister. She does not have dwarfism, but a genetic disorder comparable to autism, though far worse. I was so scared as a young child when I learned of her diagnosis. Watching your children go through life with such zest and happiness is encouraging to see. It gives me hope that my little sister may one day be as successful with her life as your children. I am 13 now, but when I am older, I want to diagnose and research as well as treat children with genetic disorders like MOPD II. Your children are such delightful people. When I first saw them, I believed in miracles.
Hiya
The courage and zest for life that your two kids show, is wonderful! I sincerly wish them well.
I do have a suggeston that might be helpful for both of them. How about considering a service dog for each? These animals are incredibly helpful to their owners, giving them a freedom they would otherwise do without, as well as providing protection and assistance if they are by themselves and happen to have an accident. Most assistance dogs are given to people without charge, since their training and placement is driven by donations to the training centers. These dogs provide a special companionship that can make their owners feel much more capable in many situations.
Please think on this a while, and consider the possibility that this might be beneficial to your children. The dogs would most likely be trained especially to deal with issues experienced by primordial dwarfs, and would provide a welcome buffer for them in social situations.
Good luck to all of you, you are in my prayers.
Jeanne
Hy, Bridgette and Brad! I wish you ALL the best! You’re a huge inspiration for all of as!
Igor
WOAHHHH!
SHE IS SOOO CUTE!
CAN I HAVE HER?
YOUR SO LUCKY TO HAVE TWO LIL PEOPLE!
AWHHHHH I LOVE YOU BRIDGE!
Thanks for your information on your wedsite. Ciaraa, my granddaughter has been diagnosed with pd. She is 1 year old, 9lbs2oz and is 23 inches tall. We don’t have a specific diagnosis yet (such as MOPD). She does see a genetics and endcronologist doctor. Ciaraa is estremely active, walks, climbs, has no teeth and is a very loving baby who has friends everyshere we go,Thanks again for this site as it gives us some hope for what her future holds.
You guys are great! Very inspiring.
Dear Jordan Family,
You are all the most wonderful family I’ve ever seen on TV!!!
Bridgette…you are such a beautiful young lady !!
And Brad, what a handsome and athletically talented young man you are !!!
All of you are a true inspiration to me. May G-D watch over you and bless you with much happiness. You really deserve it!!
All good things,
Mary Anne Prashina - from Indiana
Hi,
I have just read your story in a magazine in London. What fantastic children you have. My nephew Morgan was born in September 2005, he has Geliophysic Dysplasia. He is currently very poorly on a ventilator in intensive care fighting an infection for the third time in his short life! The outlook for him is not good, if by some miracle he pulls through he will need a trach, his airway is so small they can only fit a size 3 tube and it is so small that the pressures on the vent are too high, after reading your story, I wondered how Bri copes with her trach, does it affect how she lives her life. Morgan loves to eat and loves to sing, we hate the though of him not being able to do that. He is 2 and a 1/2 years old now, and is small, and weighs 10kg, he loves life and runs round like a mad man loving football and Winnie the Pooh. We just hve to hope and pray he survives, we have no record of anyone in London or indeed the UK ever suffering from this condition.
I just wanted to say as a parent of two “normal” children, we forget some times how lucky we are and take life for granted. Thank you so much for sharing your lives and letting us see how gifted we ALL are and how special we all are. Bri’s enthusiasm and outlook on life is remarkable, and so is Brad’s desire to be a basketball coach. I hope you can have a baby one day and Brad becomes a basketball coach. Everything in life is possible, and both of you are showing us all that. I know with you continued positive outlooks, you’ll both be bigger than life itself. Good luck and may all your wishes and dreams come true.
I’m so excited I found your website, I feel like I’ve grown up with you two! The first time I saw you guys was on Maury and I have watched every documentary since then, what an inspiration!
You guys are my hero’s. Your amazing. Bri, your outlook on life and the way you carry yourself made my year.
Jon
Hello! Just got done watching a show on TLC where you two were featured. I just want to tell you that you all inspire me, and I don’t look down upon you. I also watch Little People, Big World regularly and that show has taught me so much. I read that Bri has trouble eating without a chair??…well, I was shopping at Wal-Mart the other day and saw something that maybe you could use. It works to lift the chair by putting supports on the bottom of the chair. It was in the baby section (I was shopping for a shower). I’m not sure of the cost…I think it was about $40. Take care!
Hi yesterday I watched ur show the smallest people in the world. It was very interesting and i have been became more interested in this kind of dwarfism. Brad your very good at cheerleading i wish i could do all that stuff as good as u. I do cheerleading my self. and Bri ur really pretty and i love ur personality! I am a big fan of u guys. Btw if u want to email my my email is tizisbritt@aim.com
Brittany
hey, i think that u two are such amazing people, and you should be very proud of yourself… i’m in 6th grade and i know how things can be when you just dont fit in, but you kinda like it that way… i’m kinda like that and so i totally respect you guys and i wish i could help you out so much more. well, bye bye
hellow,your story touches my heart.I am a nine year old boy.My name is dj boyle. i want you to know that i am over 4.05 feat tall and dont be scared because people licke you are my friends
Dear Bri, Brad and Christy,
Hello, how are you all? I just got finished watching your show ‘The Littlest People In The World’ on TLC. I just want to say how amazing it was of you to let us get a little peek into your lives. I am in grade 10 and I cannot imagine the challenges you face every day. I admire all of your determination and outgoingness!! You all have a wonderfull outlook on life and were very inspiring to me, thank you! =)
I hope you have Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Years!!
Sincerly, Dayna ox
Dear Christy, Bri and Bradley, I recently watched your programme the ‘Smallest people in the World’ - how fab. Thank you for letting us into your wonderful world. I live in Liverpool England and we have a little boy who lives near by with the same condition as Bri and Brad. He travelled to America for tests and had new shoes made which have helped him learn to walk, that was another fab programme. When i had my first child i was a single Mum and i know the daily hurdles that you face Christy, it was such a struggle some days and sometimes utter frustration but it got easier as my little girl got older. Hopefully you could make another programme as the last one was the best programme I’ve seen in years. Have a good Christmas and New Year and thanks again for letting us into your lives, Love Karen Brabin - Liverpool England x
Dear Brad and Bri,
I have latley been very interested in this type of dwarfism, i have been writing Brianne Bromley, mother of Kenadie Bromley, have you met them? I was also watching the documentary on TLC, and my gosh, Brad, you are very good at sports. I am 13 years old, and still havent been able to skateboard as well as you. So, if you ever feel like talking to me, my e-mail is hallie@fibersphere.net. I would be so happy to hear from you! Like, REALLY happy, I am the only one out of my friends that is interested in this whole thing. So, write me! bye
Yours, Hallie Taylor
Hey There guys! I am doin a prodjuct on dwarfism and all your information is helping me with it! I am so glad that I found this website! And I am not a very tall person and I get made fun of and Im not even a dwarf! But anyway! Thanks for ur help!
From Kisha
Its cool that you guys are doing so well Im 18 and a primordial dwarf too and I know that theres alot of problems involved but koolios to you guys for handling things so greatly
Hi Everyone,
Well it is a new month time flies by anymore. Brad and Bri have been quite busy. Brad is working on State Qualifying for Tumbling and Trampoline. We have a little snag in double mini but things will work out. Bri has been really busy with church and friends and enjoying spring break. We are looking forward to seeing Gary and Kimberly this month. We will have updated photos then(yeh). Brad and Bri are watching something on TV about little people. They are always so interested. I was excited to make contact with a new PD. She doesn’t have the exact same thing as Bri and Brad but that doesn’t matter. I am excited to be able to help them in any way we can.
Baili enjoyed Easter. She didn’t like the Easter Bunny so no pictures of that. Easter morning she told us that the Easter Bunny didn’t come that it was HOHO (Santa). Brad and Bri enjoyed hiding eggs and finding them. We colored eggs with our friend who also have a 18 month old. Jaycee was very intrigued with Bri. Bri and Brad both have “toddler terror” for they are bigger than them and don’t understand that Brad and Bri are older. Baili came to the rescue. I wish it was on video. She was guarding Bri saying my “Bri Bri” it was precious for Baili eventhough 20 months sensed Bri needed her!! Its that little things in life thats great!
Remember to focus on the good!
Christy
Hello~
Bri & Brad truly are the “ANGELS AMONG US”. These two little people have taught so many people so many different things and have nothing but positive things to say about being little. They truly appreciate everything everyone does for them. I have done things for both of you that you and I both know “I WOULD ONLY DO FOR YOU”. You guys are very special people and I love you both with all my heart!
Love,
Chas XOXOX
Brad and others that want to help,
Thank you kindly for your offer. I will forward your offer to help to Kimberly. As you probably know we just opened this site. Accepting help from others with the kids costs is something I struggled with. Their father and I are just average hard working people. We do what we can and have done without ourselves as all parents do to make the ends meet. However, I have reached the place that as their needs become greater and cost more I realized that I had to make a decision either to accept help from others whom truly want to help make a difference in their lives or not do the things that they need. Things like going to the National Conference, Brad attending camp, Bri and Brad getting implants, modifying a car for them to drive or safely get in and out of, paying for Brad’s tumbling monthly expenses and competitions.
Can you imagine only seeing your best friends once a year?
I didn’t realize how out of place they must feel everyday until we went to conference. When we are there we are oversized! We feel out of place and stand out in the crowd. Still only a few of our friends and my immediate family have been able to attend. These conferences are in different states each year.
Can you imagine never being able to play sports your good at because your too little for the team? DAAA is an organization that sponsors sports for dwarfs. The only time Brad can participate is at conference. There he can play soccer and basketball with his peers.
How about summer camp? LPA is great and is donating for each child that attends Painted Turtle camp. However, for Brad to go its two plane tickets to CA from IL and my expenses of staying in CA so he can attend without me.
We are looking at implants for their bottom teeth. This will happen if it is medically possible. Both kids have dentures. Bri has a hard time with her bottom plate. We just had it adjusted. Both have done excellent at learning how to take care of their own dentures. Brad had a really hard time with his teeth falling out. His self image was suffering. He was so emotional when the specialists at our Childrens hospital said there was nothing they could do just wait until they all fall out then we can see about making dentures but no promises. We met the Riley’s at conference and their daughter had beautiful teeth. I found out they were dentures and implants. We made the 1000 mile journey weekly until Brad and Bri’s dentures were complete. Not one penney was paid for by insurance. Dr. Riedy and Dr. Royal reached in their pockets and gave discounts and that I am so thankful for. The thousands after that their father and I paid for. However, this was not a want this was a need both medically, nutritionally, and self image.
I could go on and on and on. Education and independence for these kids doesn’t come cheap or easy. Push comes to shove sometimes with school districts and attorney fees aren’t cheap. A huge thank you to Mr. Wernsman for his help. Parents of special needs children struggle to get their children the services they deserve.
I hope this helps you and others understand where I am coming from. I know that generous people want to help. If you have any ideas just drop me a note. I have worked hard to instill a positive spirit with Bri and Brad. We always try to find the good in things and learn from bad experiences. Brad and Bri are ones that truly guide me though. I truly believe they are the “Angels Among Us”.
A sincere Thank You
Christy, Brad and Bri
Christy,
Thank you. I probably have a double post on here now, but I registered. I work in development and fundraising at a university in Boston, so if you guys ever need any sort of fundraising help or tips, don’t hesitate to contact me. I don’t know if I can be of any assistance, but consider me a volunteer.
-Brad
Brad,
Yes I am VERY proud of them. Their courage with everyday life is so inspiring. Thank you for your kindness.
Christy
I just saw the documetary on TLC and found it very inspiring. Your family as well as everyone in the program really touched my heart. Bri and Brad are such great kids and you must be so proud of them.
Hello Christy, I was reading the one comment you left about your trip to MI just kind of curious how it went? Why did the kids have to get dentures? By the way thank you for responding to my last message. I was really hoping I was not getting to personal. Also I seen where the kids go to a public school…How do they keep from getting stepped on? Bri looks so small. I replay the TLC documentary over in my head and continue to think of how much of a positive outlook they have on life and that is so AWESOME!!:)
They have a stronger positive outlook on life than many adults that I know. I would love to hear more about Bri and Brad. I hope to hear more soon..
Thanks,
Emily
Good Morning,
Just a quick note before I start my work week. It has been a great week for the site. I am thrilled with all that have visited and sent comments. Brad had a tumbling competition this weekend. He is so busy. I think every weekend from now till may he has something or another. Bri slept in and didn’t go to the meet. She had to catch up on the beauty sleep. We go to Michigan this Friday for a dental visit with our specialist Dr. Reidy. He was sent from heaven and does such a great job with our little people’s teeth. I am so glad we found him. The trip is about 850 miles. It is an eight hour drive each way. We are going to try to get started with Brad and Bri’s implants. I look forward to seeing everyone but not to the expense. Most of you know dental implants are expensive for the average guy for our little people it is even more. My old say is as always, that too shall pass. Things always seem to work out. Got to hit the shower and go to work.
Christy
Congratulations to all of you on the new baby and on learning that flipping technique!
People can click REGISTER HERE to be able to post comments and stay up to date on Bri and Brad!
3/14/07
Addition to the family!!!
Welcome to the new cousin of Bri and Brad. Baby Carter was born yesterday after a long labor by Brittany. Carter weighed in at 8 pounds and 9 ounces and is 22 inches long. He is only 6 inches shorter than Bri!! We all love him and are very proud. Brad just came in from team tumbling practice and is so proud for he got his “full” for you tumblers you know what that means the rest of us a difficult flipping skill. Bri had church youth group with her friends. She really enjoys going. She however is worn out and heading off to bed! Thank you to everyone that has visited the site. We are really enjoying the messages and encouragement. Please register when you visit so we know where people are viewing from.
Christy