Turning Love Into Success: A Woman’s Inspiring Journey with William Syndrome
Alexandra Birch, a 27-year-old from Louisiana, shares her remarkable story of living with William Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that adds a unique perspective to her life. Born without chromosome seven, Alexandra faces developmental delays and cardiovascular abnormalities, but she embraces her condition with exceptional warmth, empathy, and a propensity to be outgoing.
In an interview with Truly, Alexandra and her older sister, Victoria, shed light on the challenges they’ve navigated together. William Syndrome, akin to Down Syndrome, manifests in cognitive and developmental issues. Alexandra, however, emphasizes the positive aspects of her condition, stating, “My rare condition means I love everyone.”
Despite the challenges, Victoria applauds Alexandra’s endless happy energy and affirms her commitment to protecting her sister. Growing up, Alexandra’s affectionate nature toward strangers occasionally put her in risky situations. Victoria, expressing concern for Alexandra’s safety, emphasizes the importance of understanding boundaries.
The sisters turned their unique journey into a thriving business. In December 2018, they began selling shirts featuring Alexandra’s face and the empowering slogan “Normal is boring,” donating five percent of sales to the William Syndrome Association. Their social media presence skyrocketed, with over 142,000 followers on TikTok and 140,000 on YouTube.
Victoria and Alexandra expanded their brand, creating an array of products that carry inspirational messages like “Be yourself,” “Stay weird,” and “Normal is boring.” The sisters craft the clothes together, with Alexandra giving the final approval. Alexandra also models the designs, adding a personal touch to their creations.
Despite encountering internet trolls, the sisters remain focused on spreading positivity and love. Victoria is proud to have created a platform that highlights Alexandra’s unique perspective, and Alexandra, unbothered by online negativity, continues to inspire others with her unwavering love and care.
In conclusion, their story is a testament to turning challenges into opportunities, celebrating uniqueness, and fostering a world filled with love and understanding. As Victoria reaffirms her commitment to her sister, their journey exemplifies the strength found in sisterhood and embracing life’s differences.
