Michelle Kish could make just about anyone smile.
The 23-year-old from Illinois was born with Hallermann-Streiff syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects 1 in 5 million people. Despite the many challenges she’s faced since then, she won’t let anything keep her from living her best life. Not to mention, she is one of the happiest people we’ve ever seen!
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Hallermann-Streiff syndrome has a number of characteristics, most of which Michelle has. It makes her look younger than she is and results in medical issues that need constant care. Thankfully, she is still able to live at home with her parents and her older sister Sarah.
The siblings share an especially beautiful bond. They’ve always been close, but Michelle looks up to the woman Sarah has become now more than ever. As for Sarah, she appreciates Michelle’s spunk and positivity.
“Every time I introduce Michelle to a new friend, they think she is really sassy and really funny. But end up liking her more than me,” she said.
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Michelle prefers to spend her days playing the piano, gaming on her iPad, and hanging out with her dog. In the future, she dreams of becoming a pediatric doctor. Of course, she has some backup plans! She would gladly work as a fashion designer or actress.
There are only two things she wishes were different about her life. First, she “would love a boyfriend with lots of hair.” Second, she’d like to be a little taller so she can go on every amusement park ride.
Her mom Mary, who acts as her main caregiver, said, “My favorite thing about Michelle is that she has high self-esteem, she loves herself and she really has a lot of confidence, she moves on every day with a happy heart, and she makes me happy even when I’m down in the dumps.”
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We love seeing people who live their best lives. Thank you, Michelle, for spreading joy wherever you go!
Learn more about Michelle in the video below, and share this story with anyone who could use a smile.
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