47-year-old woman living in 85-year-old body overcomes rare aging disease

Tiffany Wedekind, known as Tenacious Tiffany, is a 45-year-old woman living with a rare disease. This condition makes her age ten times faster than most people. Despite the challenges, Tiffany views aging as a “privilege.” Her story is inspiring and full of determination. She doesn’t let anything stand in her way.

What is progeria?

Tiffany has progeria, a genetic disorder that accelerates aging. It affects one in 20 million people. Tiffany, her brother, and her mom all have the condition. There is no cure, but treatments can slow the disease. The condition causes many health issues, but Tiffany has learned to accept it. She continues to live life to the fullest.

A hallenging childhood

As a child, Tiffany was small but full of energy. She danced, played sports, and joined cheerleading. She was different, and she knew it. “People have been staring at me my whole life, like I’m a baby doll,” Tiffany explains. “Most of the time, they smile. I smile back, and they can feel my positive energy.” Tiffany learned to embrace her uniqueness early on. She never let the stares bother her.

Struggles and the progeria diagnosis

Tiffany began noticing changes in her health during puberty. Her teeth started to give her trouble, and her facial features began to change. By her 20s, she lost her hair, and her health worsened. Her brother Chad also faced similar issues. He had multiple broken bones and needed heart surgery by age 30. Sadly, Chad passed away from a heart attack at age 39.

Tiffany’s diagnosis came in 2010 when she was 31 years old. The news came around the same time her brother passed away. “The diagnosis didn’t devastate me; I was grateful to have my questions answered,” Tiffany recalls. This diagnosis became a turning point in Tiffany’s life. She realized her mortality and wanted to make the most of her time.

Turning point in life

After her diagnosis, Tiffany made some big decisions. She got divorced and quit her job. Tiffany knew she needed to focus on herself, not in a selfish way, but with purpose. She wanted to make her life count. The diagnosis made her more aware of her life’s fragility. She embraced her situation and refused to let it stop her.

In 2017, Tiffany joined social media. At first, she kept her condition private. But her friend encouraged her to share her story. Tiffany did so for the greater good. The response was overwhelming. She quickly gained attention, and soon a UK media company contacted her for an interview. That was just the beginning.

Today, Tiffany owns an art and candle shop in Columbus. She’s been featured in People magazine. She has met celebrities like Shaquille O’Neal. Tiffany is also working on a book and a documentary about her life. She uses her platform to raise awareness for progeria and the Progeria Research Foundation. Tiffany encourages others to embrace life as an adventure.

Embracing life despite health struggles

Tiffany’s health continues to decline. She has lost her hair and teeth. She also struggles with arthritis. Doctors suggest she may need aortic valve replacement surgery soon. But Tiffany’s attitude remains positive. She hasn’t embraced her baldness, so she wears a wig. “But think about it: When was the last time we saw Dolly Parton’s real hair?!” she laughs. Tiffany remains upbeat despite her health issues. She’s grateful for every day she can get out of bed.

“My body can’t keep up with my mind anymore,” Tiffany says. “There’s so much I want to do, but I’m grateful for every day I don’t struggle to get up in the morning.” Her focus is on living fully, not on the things she can’t control. Tiffany is determined to enjoy every moment.

Finding strength in her situation

Tiffany has accepted her condition. She doesn’t focus on the things she can’t change. Instead, she focuses on what she can control. “I know what’s coming with my health, but I don’t focus on it. I accept my situation, adapt to it, and control what I can control,” she says. Tiffany’s strength comes from her ability to adapt. She doesn’t let her disease define her.

Tiffany at Rare Disease Day Conference

Tiffany will be the keynote speaker at the Akron Children’s Rare Disease Day Conference on February 28. This event brings together medical professionals, families, and community members. Tiffany will share her story and inspire others. She’s excited to speak at the conference and raise awareness for rare diseases.

Tiffany is a cheerleader for anyone facing challenges. “If you’re different, I’m your cheerleader,” she says. She knows that everyone faces struggles in life. Whether it’s a rare disease or something else, Tiffany believes it’s important to live in the moment and find happiness. She encourages everyone to pursue their passions and not let anything hold them back.

Tiffany doesn’t let progeria control her life. “I forget half the time I have progeria. I’m busy living my life,” she says. Tiffany’s positive energy is contagious. She wants others to focus on the good in their lives, not the bad.

Passion for healthy living

Tiffany is committed to living a healthy life. She doesn’t smoke, and she only drinks occasionally. She believes taking care of her body is crucial. “People don’t realize our bodies are machines that we have to take care of,” she says. Tiffany knows the importance of maintaining good health. She strives to live as healthily as possible, given her condition.

Future plans and dreams

Looking ahead, Tiffany hopes to grow her businesses and travel. She has big dreams for the future. However, she admits that the idea of aortic valve replacement surgery terrifies her. Despite her fears, she remains hopeful. “I’m a dreamer. I want to stop people from focusing on aging and instead see it as a privilege,” Tiffany says.

Embracing uniqueness

Tiffany’s message is clear: live life to the fullest. “People will complain about getting old, having wrinkles. It’s not going to matter,” she says. Tiffany wants others to focus on living rather than worrying about aging. “I’m so unique like a fish constantly trying to come out of the dark. I’m 4ft, barely 56lbs, but I’m a powerhouse.”

Tiffany Wedekind is proof that you can live a fulfilling life, no matter the challenges. She may age faster than most, but she embraces every moment. Tiffany continues to inspire others to focus on what truly matters—living a life full of passion and purpose.