Tessa, a brave little girl, was born without a nose. Despite facing unique challenges from the moment she came into this world, she has defied societal norms and inspired others to embrace the diverse beauty found in each and every one of us.
Tessa’s condition, known as complete congenital arhinia, is an extremely rare anomaly that affects only 100 people worldwide. It means that her nose didn’t develop in the womb, and she is unable to smell.
When Tessa’s parents, Grainne and Nathan Evans, discovered her facial deformity during an ultrasound, they experienced a mix of emotions. They learned that their daughter would be born without a nose just five months into the pregnancy. Despite the initial shock, the Evans family, from County Derry, Northern Ireland, were determined to provide Tessa with the best possible care and support.
Shortly after birth, Tessa underwent a tracheotomy to help her breathe. At just eleven months old, she underwent cataract surgery, facing yet another challenge. Two years later, Tessa had cosmetic surgery where prosthetics were implanted under her skin, creating a foundation for constructing an artificial nose in the future. The operation, which involved bone and skin grafts, aimed to gradually enhance Tessa’s appearance over time.
It is hoped that doctors will eventually be able to use a 3D printer to construct a nose for Tessa. In the meantime, she has adapted to breathing through her mouth and navigating a world without the sense of smell. Despite these challenges, Tessa’s infectious joy and enthusiasm for life have become a powerful testament to her unwavering determination.
“Tessa has proved everybody wrong. She exceeded everybody’s expectations,” said Grainne, Tessa’s mother, in a recent YouTube interview. However, not everyone has been as kind to Tessa. Some people, unable to understand that they will encounter individuals who look different from them at some point in their lives, have been cruel and even gone so far as to call her ‘Voldemort’ after Harry Potter’s bald and noseless arch nemesis. But Tessa, being a huge Harry Potter fan herself, has taken it all in her stride, even dressing up as the Dark Lord for Halloween!
In addition to defying expectations, Tessa possesses a remarkable ability to light up any room she enters. “She walks into any room, and she can lift the room’s mood and make everyone happy,” added Nathan, Tessa’s father.
Tessa’s story has captured global attention and serves as an inspiration for countless individuals facing their own challenges. Her strength and resilience remind us all that true beauty has nothing to do with physical appearance.
In a world often filled with negativity and hatred, Tessa’s story shows us that we can overcome adversity and that being a good human being makes us beautiful on the inside. And I would argue that this inner beauty far surpasses any external attributes.
What do you think of Tessa’s remarkable story? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
