Thirty-seven-year-old Michael Goodman is a successful pediatrician from Indianapolis, Indiana. On November 8, 2017, he wrote an emotional and personal Facebook post about living with Treacher Collins Syndrome.
According to Genetics Home Reference, Treacher Collins Syndrome affects the development of facial bones and tissue and affects 1 in 50,000 people.
Michael decided to share his story in conjunction with the movie Wonder, which hits theaters November 17, 2017. The film is based on the 2012 novel of the same name. The story follows 10-year-old Auggie who also has Treacher Collins Syndrome.
Michael called his post his "Wonder Story" and it has been shared more than 1,200 times with over 300 comments and 2,800 reactions.
In his post, Michael reveals that he's had a family refuse to have their child treated by him due to his appearance and his speech. Strangers, colleagues, and friends flooded his comments with an outpouring of love and support.
Keep scrolling to see what Michael had to say about his experience.
Michael Goodman, 37, grew up with the genetics disorder Treacher Collins Syndrome.
On November 8, 2017, he posted to Facebook about his experience with it in response to the upcoming Lionsgate film Wonder.
Michael's post has received over 2,000 reactions and 300 comments.
"People with facial deformities want to be treated like any other normally developed person: respected, even loved," Michael wrote.
Michael also shared this baby photo of himself.
"The mutation responsible for the syndrome affects development of the external ears, middle ear bones, cheekbones, and lower jaw," he explained in his post.
Michael said that parents would refuse to let their baby be treated by him "due to my appearance and speech."
But just like the character he is talking about, Michael prevailed.
Wonder is a novel by R.J. Palacio about 10-year-old Auggie who is attending public school for the first time.
It's also going to be a feature film, out November 17, 2017.
The film stars Jacob Tremblay as Auggie. "I have experienced 75% of the social struggles Auggie dealt with," Michael wrote in his post.
Owen Wilson and Julie Roberts will be playing Auggie's parents in the film.
Like in the film, Michael has gone through the same torment that Auggie goes through. Whether it's kids making fun of him or just avoiding him as if he was a monster.
"Words can and do hurt," Michael wrote.
Hundreds of people replied to Michael's post. "I admire that you've overcome the many challenges you have undoubtedly experienced," one stranger named Jackie wrote to Michael.
Michael is also a pediatrician and many of his patients and colleagues wrote on his post.
"All of your patients benefit from your kind heart and brave example," Rachel told him.
Like many, Reagann thanked Michael for sharing his story. "You inspire me," she wrote.
Please SHARE this post on Facebook with family and friends if Michael also inspires you.
