Charli Worgan and her husband Cullen have faced questions that many couples do, but for them, it often came with a puzzled “why?” Living in Sydney, both Charli and Cullen have different types of dwarfism, and public curiosity about their family life has always been a constant.
When Charli became pregnant with their first child, this curiosity quickly turned into scrutiny. Instead of allowing the negativity to get to her, Charli saw an opportunity to share her story and raise awareness. Her openness resonated with many, and what began as a personal journey soon attracted over 300,000 followers on social media, making her platform a space of inspiration and education.
Today, Charli and Cullen are the proud parents of two daughters, Tully and Tilba, aged four and two. Recently, Charli shared the news that she is 14 weeks pregnant with their third child. Yet, this pregnancy brings a mix of excitement and anxiety.
Due to the unique genetic factors at play, each pregnancy is accompanied by a series of intensive tests. Their children could inherit one type of dwarfism from either parent, be of average height, or inherit both types, which doctors warn could have fatal consequences.
Instead of celebrating her 12-week milestone with joy, Charli found herself navigating a more difficult reality. She explained how, while other mothers might share happy news, she was preparing for Chorionic Villus Sampling, a procedure that carries a 2% risk of miscarriage, to determine the genetic makeup of her baby.
“When others rejoice at 12 weeks, I was lining up for the Chorionic Villus Sampling, a procedure that carries a 2% risk of miscarriage. This test would reveal the genetic makeup of my baby,” Charli shared.
Both of their daughters have inherited one type of dwarfism, so as they await the results for their third child, the couple is faced with four possible outcomes.
The baby could be of average height, could have Achondroplasia like Charli, could inherit Cullen’s Geleophysic Dysplasia, or could receive both genetic types, resulting in what’s known as “double dominant dwarfism,” which medical professionals believe would be fatal at birth. If faced with the latter, Charli would be forced to make the heartbreaking decision of whether to continue the pregnancy.
In her heartfelt Instagram post, Charli acknowledged the uncertainty they live with, stating that she was waiting anxiously to learn if their baby’s journey would continue or end before March 2021.
Charli is no stranger to criticism for choosing to share her life so openly, especially given the challenges her family faces. But she addresses this directly. “I’ve faced criticism for choosing to have babies with these odds, but by sharing this small piece of our story, doubters can see that bringing a child into the world with these challenges is not a simple decision. It’s about kindness,” she explained.
Today, the Worgan family celebrates the birth of their baby boy, Rip, who arrived in late February. Charli posted a beautiful photo of herself and her newborn, sharing some insightful words for other parents.
“I may be tired, but I’m overwhelmingly grateful and fortunate. There’s no ‘right’ way to navigate motherhood, and there’s certainly no ‘wrong’ way either,” she wrote.
Charli’s journey as a mother mirrors the experiences of many. Her story is a powerful reminder that the challenges and joys of parenthood are universal. Through her openness, Charli and her family have become a testament to resilience, love, and the courage to embrace life fully, no matter the odds.
