When I was born in 1970 with a rare genetic disorder called spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita (SED), medical science wasn't what it is today and my mum and dad were treated terribly by the medical profession.

In this quote, Warwick Davis reflects on the challenges he and his family faced when he was born with a rare genetic disorder called spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita (SED), a condition that affects bone growth and results in short stature and other physical complications. He notes that, at the time of his birth in 1970, medical science was not as advanced as it is today. This meant that both he and his parents, particularly his mum and dad, experienced significant hardships, including misunderstanding and mistreatment by the medical profession.

Davis’ mention of his parents being treated terribly highlights the stigma and lack of knowledge surrounding rare diseases during that period. The medical community, at the time, was not as equipped to handle such conditions with the compassion and understanding that is more common today. His parents, as caregivers, may have encountered disrespect or ignorance from doctors or medical staff, which was unfortunately a common experience for many families dealing with rare conditions in the past.

The origin of Davis’ statement is rooted in his personal story, one that involves overcoming significant medical and societal obstacles. As a child with SED, Davis faced not only physical challenges but also the emotional toll of being misunderstood by those who were supposed to help. His reflections shed light on the broader history of medical advancement and how far the understanding of genetic disorders and disability has come in the decades since.

By sharing this experience, Davis also brings attention to the importance of empathy, education, and advocacy within the medical community. His quote underscores the progress that has been made in both medicine and public perception, while also honoring the struggles of those who, like his parents, had to navigate an often unwelcoming and uninformed medical system.