Nathaniel Newman’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the power of family. Born with Treacher Collins Syndrome (TCS), a rare genetic condition that affects the development of facial bones, Nathaniel has experienced challenges few can fully comprehend. Yet, despite medical complexities and social hurdles, he has emerged as a powerful voice for kindness, inclusion, and hope.
A Shocking Beginning
Nathaniel was born on March 7, 2004, in Las Vegas after a 17-hour labor. His parents, Magda and Russel Newman, were not prepared for the sight of their newborn son’s face. The delivery room, instead of being a space of joy, became one of confusion and worry. Doctors quickly moved Nathaniel to the NICU due to immediate complications with breathing, a known effect of Treacher Collins Syndrome.
TCS does not affect cognitive development, but it can severely impact facial structure, hearing, and breathing. The Newmans were faced with a steep learning curve, navigating unfamiliar medical territory while trying to bond with their baby.
Life in and out of Surgery
By the time Nathaniel was six weeks old, he had already undergone a tracheostomy to help him breathe. This would become one of nearly 70 surgeries over the years, each aiming to improve his ability to eat, speak, hear, or breathe. Despite these interventions, his spirit remained strong.
The surgeries were taxing, both emotionally and physically. Yet, Nathaniel’s determination, combined with unwavering support from his family, kept him going. His intelligence and sense of humor never wavered, earning him admiration from doctors and friends alike.
A Medical Milestone in Seattle
One of the most transformative moments came in 2016 at Seattle Children’s Craniofacial Center. Dr. Richard Hopper led a groundbreaking surgery called subcranial rotation distraction. This complex procedure repositioned Nathaniel’s facial bones, improving his airway and enabling him to live without a tracheostomy for the first time.
By January 2017, the trach tube was removed. It marked not just a medical victory but a turning point. Nathaniel could now speak and breathe more freely, significantly improving his quality of life and emotional well-being.
Inspired by “Wonder”
Later that same year, the film Wonder was released. Based on R.J. Palacio’s novel, the movie portrays a boy with facial differences and his journey through school and society. For Nathaniel, the film felt deeply personal. It arrived just as he began attending a mainstream school full-time.
The story of Auggie Pullman, the main character in Wonder, resonated with students, teachers, and communities. As a result, it helped shape a more compassionate environment around Nathaniel. He became more accepted, and others were encouraged to view facial differences with empathy instead of discomfort.
A Family Like No Other
Behind Nathaniel’s strength is the constant support of his parents and younger brother, Jacob. Magda and Russel never treated Nathaniel as anything other than capable. Jacob, despite being younger, often stood protectively beside him, especially during difficult social situations.
Magda, who also battled her own health issues, remained a rock for the family. Their tight bond helped Nathaniel find emotional grounding and confidence. Instead of hiding from the world, the Newmans chose to confront it with truth, openness, and resilience.
Turning Pain into Purpose
Nathaniel and his mother turned their lived experience into advocacy. Together, they co-authored two books: Normal: A Mother and Her Beautiful Son by Magda, and Normal: One Kid’s Extraordinary Journey by Nathaniel himself. These books candidly explore their life, struggles, and message of self-acceptance.
Through writing and public speaking, they have reached thousands of people dealing with physical differences, bullying, or family challenges. Their goal is simple but powerful: to show the world that normal is a flexible word and that everyone deserves kindness.
Living Fully, Dreaming Freely
Today, Nathaniel continues to pursue his passions. He enjoys tae kwon do, building with Legos, and playing Minecraft. These hobbies are more than ways to pass time; they represent a boy living on his terms, proving that a facial condition doesn’t limit imagination or joy.
His life includes school, creative expression, and continued advocacy. He has also appeared on TV, including interviews on ABC’s 20/20 and other platforms that share stories of personal triumph.
A Voice for Change
What makes Nathaniel’s journey unique is not just what he has endured but how he uses it to inspire. He reminds others that our value does not lie in our appearance. In every talk, post, or interview, his message is clear: lead with compassion, embrace differences, and treat everyone with dignity.
His advocacy promotes awareness of craniofacial conditions, but more than that, it builds bridges across all forms of difference. Nathaniel wants a world where everyone feels seen, accepted, and understood.
The Takeaway
Nathaniel Newman’s story is not about survival. It’s about transformation. With nearly 70 surgeries behind him, countless obstacles, and a face that drew stares from strangers, he could have chosen to retreat from the world. Instead, he chose to walk through it proudly, alongside a family that never gave up and a message that continues to inspire.
His journey teaches us that strength comes in many forms, and sometimes, the most powerful stories are written not by what’s easy, but by how fiercely one rises after falling. Nathaniel Newman is living proof that beauty lies in courage, and acceptance starts with understanding.