Primary Source Interview

I performed an interview with an inspirational woman effected by the genetic disorder Achondroplasia, named Ivy Broadhead. She facilitated my understanding of the personal life of one with the disease. We are all human beings, no matter how small, and she decieded to answer some questions for me. Ivy Broadhead is not only a "little person", but also a successful writer for The Evening Chronicle in the United Kingdom.

I asked her:

• What is everyday life like? Does the quality differ from any other human being?
• What limitations does a person affected with Achondroplasia have?

 In most cases, achondroplasia has not stopped the people that are affected from living normal lives. Other than their size and various health issues, there are no other obstacles.In term of health, there will be the common back pain, but most will not experience the more serious of the symptoms. These people feel no shame in asking for help. They develop climbing abilities and use whatever they can find to reach for up high items. At home, they will typically have step stools and few house alterations, such as lower locks for doors.Driving is also not a big issue, as it is possible to do so with pedal extensions. The hardest part is the ridicule. They do not mind the innocent curiosity of children, but it is insulting when it comes from older people.

“We are born, eat, sleep, breathe, work, study, marry, have children, get ill, and die, just like everyone else.” ~ Ivy Broadhead

Here are some organizations that can help someone in need with Achondroplasia:

www.lpaonline.org                    www.shortsupport.org