Man born with ‘upside-down head’ wasn’t expected to survive 24 hours, he’s 44 now

 

A Brazilian man who was born with his head “upside-down” and was not expected to live for 24 hours is 44 years old today. Claudio Vieira de Oliveira, who lives in the north-eastern Brazilian state of Bahia, suffers from arthrogryposis multiplex congenita.

The condition means he has muscular atrophy in his leg muscles, his arms are stuck to his chest and his head is turned all the way back, supported by his back.

Claudio has not let his disabilities stop him from doing things he loves. “I’ve never had [difficulties], my life is normal. I’m in full-on quarantine because this Covid is very aggressive, it’s lethal, so we’re scared. Spare me, God, from this damned illness,” he told Brazilian news site G1.

He said, “I’m being over twice as careful, I’ve been isolating for over a year and I only leave the house to sort out things that only I can do, such as banking.”

Claudio was determined to live his life to the fullest from his childhood. He learned to read and write with his mother at home.

His physical condition can make things more difficult, however, Claudio has never had problems with seeing, breathing, eating or drinking.

Claudio is using his condition to inspire people. He has launched a DVD, written an autobiography and even been an occasional motivational speaker, doing speeches since 2000.

However, the pandemic has put a stop to his speeches. “I’m missing it so much. I’ve got a speech in the municipality of Bezerra, in the state of Pernamubco, scheduled for 28 April. If the pandemic eases, we’ll go ahead,” he said.

The 44-year-old also looks forward to getting back to work after the pandemic eases. He volunteers with a Christian educational project called ‘Alegra-te’, which helps vulnerable children.

He added, “I want to live for many years.”

 

TimesNow