Love knows no boundaries. Sean Stephenson doesn't let his RARE osteogenesis imperfecta disease stop him from accomplishing anything in life, including finding love.
Love Knows No Bounds For This Larger-Than-Life Couple
#1 Born With a Genetic Bone Disorder
Sean Stephenson was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, in 1979, and has only grown to 2'8" as a grown man. When he was born, nearly every bone in his body was broken. By the time he was 18, he had already suffered over 200 fractures. Doctors didn't think he'd survive his first night alive, but as you'll see, they were proved very, very wrong. The disorder is genetic and there is no known cure or treatment at this time.
#2 His Disorder Is VERY Rare
The genetic bone disorder affects 20,000 to 50,000 people in the United States, and he wasn't expected to live the night when he was born. Any falls or bumps can break bones in the body, which will never heal in the normal manner. Some bones can take up to 8 years to totally heal, and not in place, even though they are set properly.
#3 Sean Suffered From Depression Due To Low Self Image
Sean not only survived, but he eventually thrived. However, his early years were extremely challenging. He required constant supervision and special attention, and suffered with his own self-image. With the love and support of his family, he began to thrive.
#4 He Decided To Change His Future
In 1998, after years of struggling with self-doubt and insecurity, Sean had an epiphany. He decided to take charge of his own destiny, and life was never again the same. He went on to become a motivational speaker.
#5 He Has Inspired Millions Over The Years
He has inspired millions of people, over the past 20 years. He not only speaks of his disorder, but about depression, the meaning of life, and love, and how to thrive in life despite any hurdles or obstacles thrown at you. He recently spoke on two different TED Talk shows about his life and the genetic disorder which only affects a small number of people. His talk on "life" won him critical acclaim.
#6 Sean Met The Love of His Life in 2012
Sean knows a lot about obstacles and love, as in 2012, Sean married Mindie, a normal-size woman and the love of his life. Though the happy couple is faced with bullying and hate mail (many people assume Mindie cheats on Sean or is only with him for his money), Sean and Mindie share an incredible bond. Nothing now can come between them.
#7 Love Overcomes
'It's a joy to get to be married to this woman,' Sean says. Mindie playfully says that the critics have it all backward: her husband is definitely the saint in this marriage. Because of their obvious physical differences, Mindie continues to receive unwelcome questions and hateful comments regarding her relationship and sex life with Sean. To that, the couple says, "We've only just begun to prove to the world that love overcomes!"
