I’m 19 But People Say I Look Like An Old Man | BORN DIFFERENT
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Published 2024-06-22
19-YEAR-OLD TikTok sensation Harry was born with an ultra-rare genetic condition called neuroblastoma amplified sequence (NBAS). The symptoms of the condition are wide-ranging, as Harry's mom Rebecca told truly: "It affects many, many aspects of his body - he's registered blind, he's a type 1 diabetic, he's autistic, he's got brittle bones as well." In addition, Harry's immune system is severely compromised, so he sits through a one-hour-long infusion once per week to help fight infections and keep him out of hospital. Rebecca and Harry's dad Christian have provided 24-hour care for their son throughout his life, helping him with everything from getting dressed to preparing food - but since he turned 18, Harry's independence has become a key priority. With an unrivalled passion for dinosaurs and animals, Harry was adamant he wanted to share his encyclopaedic knowledge with the world - and while Rebecca was fearful of the response from people online, she embarked on the journey into TikTok with Harry. His account is now closing in on a million followers and his comments section has been filled with overwhelmingly positive feedback, but some comments have caught the family off guard - particularly around Harry's perceived age. As Rebecca explained: "People have said they can't tell whether he's five or he could be 55. He's quite a gentleman, he's quite old-fashioned." The family haven't let this phase them at all and they are now hoping to use their platform to raise money for research into Harry's condition to help other families in the future. Because the condition is so rare - "almost impossible, in fact" as Harry describes it - funding has run out and the family have set up a fundraising page in the hope of resuming research as soon as possible. In the meantime, Harry is preparing to start farming college later this year - a "perfect" fit for such an animal lover - and regardless of what comes next, Harry knows that being "unique" is something to be proud of above all else.
Please consider donating to Harry's fundraiser to support medical research into NBAS: www.justgiving.com/page/rebecca-ellis-169847421270…
Follow Harry on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@sopharry0
Videographer: Scott Dulson
Producers: Kim Nguyen, Tom Buckman, Courtney Buabeng
Editor: Renee Wong
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All Comments (21)
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"It's nature and there's nothing you can do about it," which could apply to both Komodo dragons and his condition . He's got a very endearing personality and I love his sense of humor !
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What a delight!! Ask Harry a question and be prepared for a straight answer. No messing around there! 😁
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These are the type of videos I like to see on this channel! Not some plastic girl who has an only fans and dating 5 men and 2 husbands
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Good mums are one of God’s great blessings 🤍
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He is such a sweetheart.
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Aww. My heart. What an amazing mama, & son!! I LOVE their beautiful, sweet, unconditional bond. & Harry, you’re a Beautiful, Brave, Strong, Unstoppable, Inspiring WARRIOR!! GO harry, go!! Keep shining like the precious, Beautiful Gem you are Harry!! 💎 🥰💜💜
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I swear with her accent I thought she said, "Do you want to go feed the dogs?" I was thinking, "Do they volunteer at a shelter? That's an odd animal to "go feed"." It made so much more sense when I saw ducks! 😂 Anyway, cute guy and great interview! Wish the family well!
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Harry has taught me more than my school teachers.
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He is unique and it certainly does make him special. Animals are the best ! Have fun at College.😊
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I’m a Yank, I love Harry’s proper British accent. He Certainly has More than his share of Challenges and health problems. He’s Brave and Inspirational. I feel sorry for such a young man having So much on his plate. God Bless
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As a fellow person with a disability that impacts everything that I do, I’m so grateful that there’s still people out there that believe that folks with disabilities in different ways of processing, the world deserve to be able to do what they’ve been sent here to do what they’ve been created for.
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I think he looks adorable. He doesn't look old to me. And I love how supportive his mom is for her son.
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Just like the film “Jack” with Robin Williams.
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He's so cute. Love him.
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He looks like Daniel Radcliffe
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Prayers-up, for that awesome little man!! I hope that he lives a Long happy life! God Bless!🙏🏼✝️👑🫡
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Good Luck in College my Buddy! You are Number 1 son!
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Stay kind. Keep on shining like you do. ❤️Harry
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Harry and his mum are awesome ❤
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Mom is wonderful 🩷
