Many famous people with Williams Syndrome Famous People have overcome the challenges that come with this rare genetic disorder. From actors and athletes to musicians, these individuals have made a positive impact on their communities.
Some of them have even started foundations in their name to raise awareness about Williams syndrome. Here are a few of them:
Ben Monkaba
Williams Syndrome Famous People is a rare genetic disorder, caused by deletions of chromosome 7. It can affect any part of the body and cause prenatal and postnatal growth problems, short stature, variable degrees of mental deficiency and distinctive facial features.
Most often Accompanied
The condition is most often accompanied by heart issues, which can lead to life-threatening problems such as heart failure and chest pain. Supravalvular aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the aorta – the main artery that transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body – is also common among individuals with Williams syndrome.
Despite their challenges, Williams syndrome patients tend to be extremely social and empathetic. They have a low sense of social threat and can be impulsive affectionate, says Jocelyn Krebs, president of the Williams Syndrome Association.
Gloria Lenhoff
Williams syndrome is a genetic condition that produces physical and cognitive abnormalities. It’s caused by a specific mutation on the seventh chromosome.
Lowered Production of Elastin
Williams Syndrome Famous People with the condition are missing a tiny portion of chromosome 7. They may also have a lowered production of elastin, a protein that’s responsible for helping elastic fibers develop in major arteries, the lungs and the skin.
In addition to heart and circulatory problems, people with Williams syndrome often suffer from intestinal disorders, high blood pressure and joint problems. However, the disorder is not fatal.
Gloria Lenhoff is an amazing soprano singer who has a repertoire of over 2,500 songs in more than 30 languages. She sings in a perfect accent and has performed with many world class symphonies and popular bands such as Aerosmith.
Leah Ward
Leah Ward was born on June 13, 1955 in Heidelberg, Germany. Her family traveled the world before settling in Savannah, Georgia.
She attended and graduated from Beach High School in the city. She later became a lawyer and a judge.
Rare Genetic Disorder
Williams syndrome (WS) is a rare genetic disorder that affects about 1 in 10,000 people worldwide. It occurs when there are deletions of portions of chromosome 7.
This causes prenatal and postnatal growth problems, mental retardation and distinctive facial features.
Individuals with WS are also prone to heart disorders like supravalvular aortic stenosis, which can be life-threatening.
In addition, patients with WS are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and pre-diabetes. They also have difficulty in absorbing nutrients and developing healthy relationships with adults.
LeVelle Moton
Williams syndrome is a rare genetic disorder. It is caused by a mutation in a single gene on the seventh human chromosome.
This mutation results in several medical and physical problems, including heart defects and distinctive facial features (such as round faces, full cheeks, thick lips and large mouths that are held open). Also common are short eyelid folds (palpebral fissures) and a narrow nasal bridge with nostrils that flare forward (anteverted nares).
The condition is typically inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. However, sometimes parents with the disorder pass the condition on to their children.
Final Words:
People with this condition typically have a mild to moderate intellectual disability. They have a specific cognitive profile, including strengths in verbal short-term memory and language, but weaknesses in visuospatial construction. They also have a unique personality combining high levels of anxiety, empathy and over-friendliness.