Tessa Evans, a bright and cheerful 10-year-old from Ireland, has captured the hearts of people worldwide with her extraordinary story. Born on Valentine’s Day in 2013, Tessa was born without a nose due to a rare condition called Bosma arhinia microphthalmia syndrome (BAMS). This condition affects fewer than 100 people globally.
Tessa’s parents, Grainne and Nathan, were shocked by their daughter’s condition, as their pregnancy had been normal with no signs of complications. Despite the challenges, Tessa’s family has been a pillar of strength and support, praising her courage and resilience.
Tessa’s condition means she cannot smell or breathe through her nose, but she can still cough, sneeze, and catch colds. Her parents recall the first time she sneezed, finding it a comforting moment of normalcy amidst the chaos.
In her early years, Tessa faced numerous challenges, including a five-week stint in intensive care and surgery to insert a tracheostomy tube. At just two years old, she became the first person to receive a cosmetic nasal implant, paving the way for future procedures.
Tessa’s parents made the difficult decision to undergo surgery to give their daughter a more normal appearance. While it was a tough choice, they wanted to minimize future invasive procedures. Grainne reflects on the long process, explaining that Tessa’s final surgery will be completed when she turns 13, followed by a medical tattoo artist adding shading and details to her new nose.
Throughout her journey, Tessa has inspired countless people with her zest for life and infallible courage. Her Facebook page, Tessa; Born Extraordinary, is filled with messages of admiration and support. As Tessa continues to grow and thrive, she remains a beacon of hope and resilience, proving that her condition will not hold her back from living life to the fullest.
