NICK SMITH is only 34 inches tall - a tiny 2ft 6" compared to his 6ft tall brothers.
Nick – one of the smallest men in the world - has Microcephalic Osteodysplastic Primordial Dwarfism, a rare condition which has a short life expectancy and causes illnesses often associated with old age.
Defying all medical expectations, Nick has recently celebrated his 28th birthday with his nearest and dearest.
Nick’s mother, Shelly, told Truly: “We didn't even know that we would have him for 28 years and we don't know if we'll have him for 29.
Nick has done everything more than the doctors could even imagine, they didn't think Nick would ever walk or talk.” Nick’s brothers Travis and Levi also attended his party.
They both tower over Nick at 6ft 5”.
Travis spoke about the importance of the occasion: “Celebrating Nick’s birthday is always a great thing, just celebrating his life and being here with us.” Despite the happy celebrations Shelly spoke about the emotional toll that Nick’s health can take on her.
“I worry about the next future every day; I worry about a small cold that might end up with something worse.” Shelly cherishes the time she has with Nick and sees the positive side of his young mentality, as it has helped keep their close bond.
“It's like having that boy that never grew up, it's a beautiful child to have.”