Can you tell me what you understand about Pituitary Dwarfism? Also called Growth Hormone Deficiency, it causes restricted growth and several other symptoms. The condition may be congenital, meaning it is inherited from parents, or it can arise after birth, but it typically has a genetic component.
Typically, pituitary dwarfism is characterized by subnormal growth and a youthful appearance with proportionate body features, and may not be diagnosed until later on. In certain instances, an undiagnosed head injury or an underlying brain tumor may be the underlying cause, although this would necessitate various examinations to determine.
A Man From Wales Traveled To The US To Meet Shauna And Her Mother
In 2022, Dan Swygart, a 26-year-old, traveled to the United States to meet Shauna Rae, a 23-year-old woman he had fallen deeply in love with. It was evident to anyone why he felt that way, as she was stunningly beautiful. Despite her diminutive stature of 3ft 10in and weight of just 50 lbs, Shauna is an adult and lives a fully mature life, even though her physical appearance may seem childlike to some.
Diagnosed With A Brain Tumor As A Child, Shauna Faced Some Rather Potent Chemotherapy
After Shauna's diagnosis, the only treatment option available to her was intensive chemotherapy. Unfortunately, the chemotherapy destroyed her pituitary gland, which made it incapable of functioning normally. As a result, her growth was stunted, and her body remained in a child-like state. Eventually, she was diagnosed with pituitary dwarfism, and as a consequence, she has led a life that is both big in experiences and small in stature.
On the TLC series "I am Shauna Rae," she candidly shared the details of her condition, describing how her life has been impacted by her diagnosis and the methods she has used to manage the daily challenges. "I want to live my life like my friends and sisters do, but I need my mother, father, and the rest of the world to realize that I'm an adult."
"It is difficult seeing my other friends and family being more independent, but I don't envy or have any jealousy towards Tara and what choices she has made in her life, whether that's going to college or moving out. But I think it's entirely unfair that my parents treat us differently as we're only two years apart." She continued.
Then There Was Dan
In addition, Shauna divulged details about her relationship with Dan. He reached out to her via direct message after reading about her journey, and they quickly formed a deep bond. Recently, a video clip emerged, which was originally shared after her story went viral. In the video, Dan confronts online harassers who are incapable of comprehending the emotional connection between them.
"It's very important to remember that Shauna is an incredible 23-year-old woman who has a disability," he said. "So as you are building a connection with her, it's important to acknowledge her disability and look past that and build it with who she is an individual. She's this incredible, inspiring 23-year-old woman who just happens to be a little bit short."
Upon the initial release of the video, viewers were divided in their opinions, with some finding the relationship to be unusual, odd, disconcerting, and even disturbing. In fact, one person even commented: "I'm sorry, but any man that wants to date her – there is definitely something not right with him. Yes, she is 23, but she looks and talks like an eight-year-old. She also does not act like a mature woman. She is childlike."
Dan Stood His Ground, Defending What They Had Together
"As soon as you say that she can't have a real-world connection with someone else, you dehumanize her, which is absolutely disgusting. She is a human being. She deserves to have relationships and connections with whomever she wants. And I think some people aren't emotionally mature enough to understand that you can have a deep connection based on personality rather than just on looks." he said.
Shauna's mother, Patty Schrankel, also supported the couple and praised Dan in the comments section. "Well said Dan. I appreciate your coming into our lives." Many more compliments poured in with one writing: "So well said! You BOTH deserve to be happy. There's too much judgment in this world. Wishing you both future happiness."
Another added: "Agree! I'm 3'11 and my husband is 6'3. When we first started dating everyone assumed we were together for the dumbest reasons. Just because a person is short, doesn't define who we are as individuals and that we can't have a normal life. Love is love." and that it is indeed.
