(posted to my 2020 Facebook page) ….
You’ve already heard a lot from me over the years about dwarfism in terms of education and advocacy. But today, on the first day of Dwarfism Awareness Month, let me share some thoughts on how I feel about being a little person.
I’m not speaking for all little people, and I’m not trying to minimize the very real struggles others might have, as different types of dwarfism cause a wide variety of medical issues. And I’m also keenly aware that many whom I care deeply about have struggled more than I have with job searching, reaching/adapting, negative public reactions, and other day-to-day issues.
But for me, I can honestly say that I am glad to be a little person and wouldn’t want it any other way. I’ve had amazing experiences and so many wonderful people in my life that wouldn’t have been the case had I not been a little person. And I believe I owe all that to 3 blessings:
1. First and foremost (you hear me say it all the time 
), I’d be nobody without Jesus Christ. Thanks, God!
2. I can’t imagine how I could have grown up feeling so positively with dwarfism if it weren’t for the love, support, and attitude toward me and my dwarfism that my immediate and also my extended family showed me. Thanks, family members!
3. How boring and lonely my life would be without the laughs and encouragement of so many friends from all over the U.S. and beyond…friends whom I’ve often heard say, “I forget you’re a little person,” because they see me as Terri, not as my dwarfism. Thanks, friends!
So in honor of National Dwarfism Month, I’m starting with heartfelt gratitude for all those who truly respect, care and advocate for people with dwarfism or any other difference…and for those who teach their kids to do the same.
To those of you with little people children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins….if you’re worried about what to do for your LP to instill hope, joy, and confidence in them, my advice is to love them unconditionally and continually tell and show them that you accept them just as they are and will continue to be there for them whatever comes their way.
Thanks for reading! Love to you all.
