Karen Waller, Rex (PEOPLE & PORTRAIT 2024)

Rex is resilient, strong and confidant and is proud of his body. It is a body that has endured so much and yet seems unbreakable, repairing unseen bones 140 times. Rex was born with 8 fractures and diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or brittle bones. He spent his early years in hospital and was only able to walk at 5 years of age. Steel rods were inserted into his legs for strength and support. His spine was fused to give his body support so he could stand. As he grew during childhood, longer rods were inserted. Callipers also gave him the support and strength to stand upright and to walk. Rex needs callipers to walk, and it takes 15 minutes each morning to put them on. Despite daily challenges, Rex loves his rich and full life.

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