Tiffany Wedekind, 46, was diagnosed with a condition that causes her to age faster than normal. Most people with this condition do not live past 13 years old.
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Tiffany Wedekind, 46, was diagnosed with Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome, commonly known as Benjamin Button disease. Most people with the condition do not live past the age of 13, and Tiffany says she feels “lucky to still be here.”
Because of her condition, Tiffany ages eight times faster than an average person. At the age of 20, she received the diagnosis of a genetic mutation after noticing hair and tooth loss.
The condition affects one in every four million children, and there is no cure, only treatments to ease the symptoms.
“I’m blessed to still be here, and I’m doing everything I can to give myself the best chance. I saw how my brother struggled (with progeria) and how things changed quickly for him, so I live with a positive mindset,” Tiffany told the Metro newspaper.
Tiffany’s brother passed away in 2012 due to Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome. She tries to maintain a healthy lifestyle by cycling, doing yoga, and eating as well as possible.
“I’m living life to the fullest while I can, because I’ve seen how short life can be. I’m amazed that I’m still here, so I treat my life like my playground,” Tiffany stated.
Photo: X @agrayphoto. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.