The nine months a mother carries her baby are meant to be filled with joy and excitement, not uncertainty. New parents naturally hope for their baby’s safe arrival, eager to welcome a healthy child into their lives. Sadly, that ideal doesn’t always come to pass.

In Highland, New York, Jennie Wilklow eagerly awaited the birth of her daughter, imagining the joy of holding her newborn for the first time. With healthy ultrasounds and routine check-ups, Jennie and her husband felt confident that their baby, Anna, would be born healthy.

However, their world was turned upside down after Anna’s birth. Jennie had a C-section at 34 weeks, and the moment she heard her daughter’s first cry, she felt a wave of relief, believing everything was as it should be. But when Jennie’s husband entered the room, the mood quickly shifted. His stunned silence left her concerned, as he sat motionless, his eyes filled with shock.

Jennie anxiously questioned him, but his response only deepened her confusion. “It’s bad,” he repeated, his words heavy with meaning. Then he added, “Jennie, I looked into her eyes, and she has the most beautiful soul.”

The unexpected diagnosis came shortly after. Anna was born with harlequin ichthyosis, a rare condition that causes thick, diamond-shaped plates of skin, separated by deep cracks. As Anna’s delicate skin hardened within seconds of birth, Jennie was in shock. Just moments earlier, she had thought she was giving birth to a perfectly healthy baby girl. “It’s a moment that stays with you forever,” Jennie said. “It reminds you every day how precious life is.”

Anna’s skin quickly began to split, leading to painful open wounds. Despite the grim prognosis, Anna defied the odds and is now thriving, with her mother describing her as the embodiment of beauty.

Harlequin ichthyosis requires constant care, and unfortunately, no cure exists. Anna’s treatment includes frequent two-hour baths several times a day, along with moisturizing her skin with ointments like Aquaphor. Her care also involves physical and occupational therapy. Due to the condition’s excessive skin production, Anna requires a high-calorie diet of about 2,100 calories per day to maintain her health.

While babies born with harlequin ichthyosis once had a short life expectancy, improvements in neonatal care have significantly increased survival rates. The Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types (FIRST) reports that some individuals with the condition have lived into their teens and twenties. However, some newborns with harlequin ichthyosis may not survive. After the thick, diamond-shaped scales shed, the skin turns red and may form thin scales, which can be managed with emollients to prevent cracks and infections.

Despite the challenges, Jennie has remained strong for her daughter, using her Instagram page, @harlequindiva, to raise awareness and share her journey. She posts heartwarming pictures of Anna, showcasing the daily challenges and triumphs of raising a child with this rare condition.

“Anna has captured the hearts of so many people because she is the epitome of perfection in its purest form,” Jennie said. As Anna continues to meet new milestones, Jennie and her family celebrate each achievement with immense pride.

Reflecting on her journey, Jennie now understands that Anna was entrusted to her because of the deep love she already felt for her daughter. “Our destinies are intertwined, and together we will show the world what true beauty really means.”

Thanks to her devoted parents, Anna is thriving. As she approaches her sixth birthday, Anna is flourishing, supported by the care, love, and opportunities her parents provide. Jennie and her husband remain committed to creating an environment where Anna can live a fulfilling life, helping her navigate the world with strength and resilience.

Have you ever come across windows with bars that seem to bulge outward slightly?

You may have wondered what these bulging bars are for — are they merely ornamental, or do they serve a specific purpose?

Let’s dive into the world of window bars, particularly those with an intriguing feature known as a “potbelly.”

Purpose of window bars

Window bars have been used for centuries to add an extra layer of protection to homes and buildings. Their main function is to prevent intruders from easily gaining access through windows, making them a practical security measure, according to House Logic. However, not all window bars are the same. Some feature an interesting design — the potbelly. This slight bulge in the bars serves several practical functions beyond just security.

One of the most common uses of window bars with potbellies is to support flower boxes. The potbelly creates a stable platform that allows homeowners to place flower boxes securely, adding a touch of nature and color to their windows. Picture a charming street where every window is adorned with vibrant flowers. It’s a simple way to enhance the appearance of a building while making it more inviting. These window bars provide both beauty and function, offering space for homeowners to get creative with greenery.

Another handy use for potbellied window bars is for air conditioning units. In many older homes or apartments, where air conditioning units need to be placed in windows, the potbelly design offers extra room to safely accommodate them. This added space allows for proper ventilation while maintaining security. Instead of removing the bars or compromising on safety, the potbelly offers a solution that blends functionality with security.

Types of window bars

If you’re considering installing window bars with potbellies for your own home, you’re in luck — there are several places to find them. Hardware stores and home improvement centers often carry a variety of security options, including bars with this unique design feature. You can choose from different styles and materials to match the aesthetic of your home. Additionally, online shopping provides even more options. Many websites specialize in home security products and offer detailed descriptions, reviews, and comparisons to help you make the best decision.

When choosing window bars, it’s important to consider not only the security they provide but also their durability and style. Opt for materials like wrought iron or steel, which offer both strength and long-lasting protection. At the same time, think about how the bars will complement the overall look of your home—after all, they will be part of your home’s exterior for years to come.

Proper installation is key when it comes to window bars. To ensure they are effective and safe, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional installer. Poor installation could reduce their effectiveness and create safety risks, so it’s worth taking the time to do it right.

While potbellied window bars are a great security measure, they shouldn’t be the only step you take to protect your home. Consider incorporating additional security features like solid doors, alarm systems, and outdoor lighting to create a comprehensive plan. A combination of these measures will offer greater peace of mind.

So, next time you see these unique window bars, you’ll appreciate their many uses and the thought behind their design!

A sleepover prank took a terrifying turn when the trusted friends of a 12-year-old Georgia boy dumped scalding water on him, ripping the skin from his face and leaving him with severe burns.

Georgia’s Trey West spent New Year’s Day in hospital, recovering from the severe burns left on most of his face after three of his friends allegedly found amusement in pouring boiling water over his face while he slept.

According to WALB 10, the 12-year-old was at his neighbor’s Tifton apartment, enjoying a sleepover with three other boys – ranging in age from 12 to 15.

When the incident happened, Trey was sleeping while the other pre-teens were playing video games. Then one of the kids dumped hot water on Trey, said his mother, Tiffany West.

“I mean, I really can’t describe it now. In that moment I was just mad, hurt, in shock,” West said of the alleged prank, that caused second degree burns, primarily on the boy’s face, requiring immediate medical attention.

“I was seeing red. I was just trying to hurry up and get him some help.”

Medical News Today writes these burns can be extremely painful and following an almost months-long healing process, “second-degree burns often leave a scar, which may fade over several years.”

‘Numb’

West’s son was rushed to the hospital where he underwent surgery to treat his injuries.

“He was transported to the burn center in Augusta. He had to have surgery. Of course, he is out of surgery and is recovering at home, now. But it is going to take him 12-14 days to heal,” said West about Trey’s journey ahead, which will have both physical and emotional challenges.

“You got to be in shock to know your friends are capable of doing this to you. Like somebody you trusted, it’s just horrible. He never thought something like this would happen to him,” said Nachelle Austile, the boy’s aunt.

“I always ask him if he’s mad, sad…he just doesn’t have [any] emotion about it,” Austile says while West adds, “he’s numb about it.”

The three boys responsible for the prank were arrested but later released to their families as they await court hearings scheduled for next month.

Challenging moments

Meanwhile, the community has rallied around the victim and his family, offering donations and support.

West expressed her gratitude in an emotional Facebook post, thanking well-wishers for their generosity and encouraging words. “I woke up to SO much LOVE being shown to my son!” she wrote. “It brings tears to my eyes to know so many people care for me & my son and that we are not alone in this.”

The post continued, “I drop to my knees every day thanking God that my baby is still here and he is going to be ok because it could have been [worse],” West writes in the January 3, 2025 post.

Referring to her son as a “warrior,” West celebrated the positivity that the community’s kindness has brought to their lives: “Every donation, gift, encouraging word, and prayer has put a smile on my son’s face!” she added.

Days later, she shared another social media post, explaining that her young boy was at home and recovering well.

“My son is recovering beautifully since surgery! He may be able to go back to school next week after his second follow up appointment Tuesday! Occasionally, he does have some challenging moments but overall, he’s in good spirits,” she writes. “When we first got home from the hospital, he had to stay elevated and sleep in a recliner but now he’s able to sleep normal in his own bed…I don’t only cry because of sadness and madness but also because of joy that my baby boy is going to be just fine!”

Perhaps the most heartwarming update is a clip that West shared on January 11, where Trey is seen smiling and dancing with his sister.

“Video of my son & his baby sister. He’s healing Beautifully! Nobody But God,” she writes.

The ordeal serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of reckless pranks and the importance of fostering empathy and accountability among youth.

What are your thoughts on this terrifying incident? Please let us know what you think and then share this story so we can hear from others!

Tessa, nicknamed “Voldemort” due to being born without a nose, stands out with her distinctive appearance, challenging societal norms of beauty. Born with the rare condition complete congenital arhinia, Tessa faces unique challenges, as this anomaly, affecting only a few globally, results in the absence of a nose.

Her condition extends to the lack of an olfactory system, responsible for recognizing smells. Despite these challenges, Tessa embraces life with unmatched enthusiasm, refusing to let her condition define her. Arhinia occurs when the nose fails to develop in the womb, creating a facial feature void.

In Tessa’s case, it extends beyond appearance to the absence of her olfactory system. Her parents, recognizing her beauty and uniqueness, inspire others to appreciate the diverse beauty inherent in every individual, challenging preconceived notions of what it truly means to be exceptional.

Shortly after birth, Tessa was moved to the intensive care unit, where she underwent a tracheotomy to assist with breathing. At the age of eleven months, she faced cataract surgery, adding to the early challenges.

At the age of two, Tessa opted for cosmetic surgery, implanting prostheses beneath her skin, laying the foundation for a future artificial nose. The decision was weighed carefully by her parents, viewing it as an opportunity to gradually improve Tessa’s appearance. This involved bone and skin grafts, a procedure typically recommended during adolescence.

Living without a nose, Tessa has adapted by breathing through her mouth and lacking the sense of smell. Despite these hurdles, her infectious joy and enthusiasm serve as a powerful testament to her unwavering determination to embrace life to the fullest.

Dylan Dreyer, one of the beloved faces of NBC’s *Today* show, recently shared some heartwarming news that left her feeling deeply honored and excited about her work.

The meteorologist and television host, known for her vibrant personality and dedication to her craft, took a moment to celebrate this professional milestone,

much to the delight of her colleagues and fans alike.

Dreyer, who has been a staple on *Today* and a trusted voice for weather and lifestyle reporting,

revealed that she received recognition for her contributions to the show and her broader impact in the media industry.

While the specific details of the accolade remain private, it was clear from her emotional response that this was a significant and meaningful moment in her career.

Expressing her gratitude on social media, Dreyer wrote, “I’m beyond honored to receive this recognition. It’s a privilege to do what I love every day and connect with so many incredible people.” Her heartfelt post resonated with fans, who flooded the comments with congratulatory messages and shared how much they appreciate her presence on the show.

Dreyer’s journey with *Today* has been nothing short of inspiring. As a meteorologist and co-host, she has consistently brought professionalism, warmth, and relatability to her role. Whether she’s delivering the latest weather updates, engaging in lighthearted banter with her co-hosts, or sharing personal stories about her family life, Dreyer has become a favorite among viewers.

Her ability to connect with the audience on both a professional and personal level has earned her widespread admiration. This latest recognition only underscores the impact she has made not just on *Today*, but also in the broader landscape of morning television.

In addition to her work on *Today*, Dreyer has also made her mark as an author and advocate for family-friendly programming. Her children’s book series, inspired by her own experiences as a mother, has been well-received by readers and praised for its positive messages. Balancing her career, family life, and creative pursuits, Dreyer embodies the modern working professional who strives to excel in every area of her life.

This recent recognition serves as a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and the genuine passion she brings to everything she does. It’s also a reminder of the many roles Dreyer fulfills—not just as a meteorologist and host, but as a storyteller, mentor, and role model.

The announcement of Dreyer’s joyful news quickly became a topic of celebration among her colleagues and fans. Co-hosts Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie, and Al Roker were among the first to congratulate her, highlighting the strong bond shared by the *Today* team. “Dylan is one of the hardest-working and kindest people I know,” Kotb shared. “She deserves every bit of recognition she’s getting.”

Fans also took to social media to express their admiration and excitement. One viewer wrote, “Dylan, you’ve been a bright light on *Today* for years. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!” Another commented, “Your passion and positivity shine through every morning. We’re so proud of you!”

As Dreyer continues her journey with *Today*, this milestone is sure to be a source of motivation and inspiration. While she remains humble about her accomplishments, it’s clear that her dedication to her work and her ability to connect with audiences have not gone unnoticed.

Reflecting on her career, Dreyer shared, “I’m so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the amazing people I get to work with every day. This recognition means the world to me, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”

Dylan Dreyer’s recent honor is a shining example of how talent, hard work, and authenticity can lead to meaningful achievements. Her gratitude and humility in the face of this recognition serve as a reminder of why she has become such a beloved figure in morning television. As she celebrates this milestone, fans and colleagues alike look forward to seeing her continue to thrive and inspire on *Today* and beyond.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.

When it comes to the question of what size is actually ideal in a partner, we’ve all heard the myth that bigger is always better.

But British adult star Belle Olivia is here to burst that bubble with some surprising honesty — and yes, she’s calling out the myths we’ve all seen in adult films.

At just 22, Olivia is already one of the highest-earning stars in the adult industry, and she’s seen it all. Recently, she opened up about the real preferences of both herself and her colleagues, and spoiler alert: it’s not all about the exaggerated sizes we’ve come to expect.

In fact, many men may be surprised to learn that bigger isn’t always better. Olivia shared that the pressure to have large proportions, often exaggerated in adult films, isn’t as big of a deal in real life as you might think.

She explained: “There’s no way big is always better and because me and a lot of other girls in the industry are so short and petite, that can be a real disadvantage as it gets sore for us when we’re making our content.”

So, what size is considered ideal for intimacy in the real world?

Olivia spills the beans: it’s around 6.5 inches. And for those who are wondering, “What about girth?” Well, she’s got that covered too. Olivia shared, “We also don’t want them too girthy. It doesn’t hurt and it seems to be the perfect fit. That’s also what we want from our boyfriends, by the way.”

Olivia encourages men to stop comparing themselves to what they see in adult films, reminding us that those “exaggerated” representations don’t reflect real-life preferences. “No girl wants to end up not being able to walk every day just because they’ve had s**!” she joked, lightening the mood.

Her insights are backed by research too. A 2022 study found that while women preferred a slightly larger size — around 6.4 inches — for a casual encounter, for a long-term relationship, they preferred something a bit smaller—around 6.3 inches.

Small difference? Yes. But it proves that comfort and compatibility matter more than sheer size.

For those comparing themselves to the big guns you see in movies, Olivia’s words offer a refreshing dose of reality: it’s not just about size, it’s about finding the perfect fit for you—and that might not be as “extra-large” as you think.

So, next time someone mentions “size matters,” just remember: it’s all about finding what’s comfortable and compatible — and maybe not overdoing it, for the sake of your legs.

Given the overwhelming size and outrageous global reach of the internet, one never has to look too far to find online content that shocks, stuns, amazes or disgusts.

The rise of social media sites has meant that photos and videos can be shared worldwide like never before. As a result, trends develop from time to time where there seems to be waves of similar content rolling out during a given period.

It probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that content to do with our bodies – and all the weird, wonderful, fascinating stuff it can do – has proven popular online. You’ll likely be all too familiar with videos including pimple popping (gross!), cyst draining (double gross!) and earwax removal.

But have you ever heard of tonsil stones? I hadn’t, in any case, so when I saw a video on the subject, I decided to do what I do best… share the information with you lovely folks…

I’ll admit to having a high degree of curiosity when it comes to all things related to the human body. I don’t necessarily think they’re nice to watch, but the viral-craze of the so-dubbed “pimple popping” videos hooked me like a fish.

That said, when I came across a related video concerning the removal of “tonsil stones”, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.

To begin with, I’d probably better tell you what exactly tonsil stones are. I hadn’t heard of them before, let alone seen one. Perhaps I’m alone in this, maybe all you readers out there are familiar with them. Then again, maybe not…

As per the Mayo Clinic, tonsil stones are hard white or yellow formations that occur on the tonsils. They’re neither painful nor harmful, and can usually be treated with home remedies.

The main causes of tonsil stones are trapped materials and debris in the tonsillar crypts, located in the – yep, you guessed it – tonsils, those oval-shaped, infection-fighting flaps of tissue located at the back of your throat. This can include minerals, such as calcium, food or debris, or even bacteria and fungi.

Now, tonsil stones are more common than one might think, though they don’t always cause symptoms. When they do, said symptoms can include bad breath, a cough, earache, and a sore throat, amongst others.

According to reports, 3 million Americans a year suffer from tonsil stones, but fortunately removing them is a rather easy and simple affair. In fact, a variety of home methods including gargling with salt water and using a delicate object – like a cotton swab – can be used to dislodge them.

Not only that, but simply having a strong cough can actually loosen the stones and bring them up.

In the video below (which has a whole lot of views) we can watch someone in the process of removing a tonsil stone. Warning! It’s pretty graphic!

Did you know tonsil stones existed? Have you ever experienced one before? Let us know in the comments.

Meanwhile, if you thought this article was interesting, check out the one below for more compelling content.

In a groundbreaking and controversial move, a high school girls’ swim team has officially announced they will not compete against a biological male swimmer in an upcoming competition. The team members cited concerns over fairness in the sport, arguing that the presence of a male swimmer competing against them gives an unfair advantage. The decision has sparked heated debate among athletes, parents, coaches, and lawmakers across the nation.

The controversy arose when a male swimmer, who identifies as female, was allowed to compete in a state-level swim meet against the girls’ team. According to reports, the swimmer has been breaking records in the women’s category, leading many of the girls on the team to voice their concerns. In a statement, the team explained their stance:

“It’s not fair. We’ve worked hard for years to achieve success in this sport, and it’s disheartening to see someone who has a biological advantage competing against us.”

The team’s refusal to compete has generated strong reactions from both sides of the debate. While some see the girls’ decision as a bold stand for fairness in women’s sports, others view it as discriminatory against transgender athletes.

Supporters of the girls’ swim team argue that biological males, even those undergoing hormone therapy, still retain advantages in strength, speed, and endurance, which can give them an edge over female competitors. They believe that allowing transgender women to compete in female categories undermines the integrity of women’s sports.

One parent of a swimmer said:

“We want equality, but that doesn’t mean it’s fair to put our girls up against someone who has an inherent physical advantage.”

On the other hand, advocates for transgender inclusion in sports argue that transgender women should be allowed to compete in women’s categories, especially if they are following the necessary hormone treatments. They stress that inclusion is vital for equal rights and for fostering an environment of respect and acceptance.

The situation has sparked political and legal debates as well. Several states have introduced legislation either allowing or banning transgender athletes from competing in categories that match their gender identity. This ongoing legal battle has made its way into courtrooms, with advocates on both sides of the issue vying for a resolution that will satisfy all parties involved.

Some lawmakers have expressed their support for the swim team’s decision, calling it an important step in protecting women’s sports. Others, however, have criticized the team’s stance, warning that such actions could lead to further division in the sports community.

This incident highlights the growing tension between fair competition and inclusivity in sports. As more transgender athletes seek to compete in their gender-affirmed categories, the debate over fairness and inclusion will only intensify. Some sports organizations, including the NCAA and various state athletic associations, have started to implement guidelines aimed at creating a level playing field, but those measures have yet to satisfy everyone involved.

As for the girls’ swim team, their decision has put them at the center of a national conversation about gender, fairness, and the future of women’s athletics. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future, influencing how schools, sports organizations, and governments approach the complex issue of transgender athletes in competitive sports.

The debate is far from over, and the eyes of the nation will remain on the evolving policies and the implications they hold for both transgender athletes and their competitors.

A student who went viral after tearing out her own eyeballs while high on crystal meth has revealed she has “no regrets” after recently being fired from her job.

Kaylee Muthart, from Anderson, South Carolina, was just 20 years old when she had a serious psychotic episode in 2018 while under the influence of methamphetamine.

Having started smoking marijuana in high school, Kaylee graduated to first smoking, then injecting meth. When her mom ultimately convinced her to go to rehab to get clean, Muthart sought a final high before quitting.

Terrifyingly, the drug made her believe that “everyone would die if I didn’t tear out my eyes immediately”.

“I remember thinking that someone had to sacrifice something important to right the world, and that person was me,” she told South West News Service via The Daily Mail. “I got on my hands and knees, pounding the ground and praying, ‘Why me? Why do I have to do this?’“

She went on to explain: “I pushed my thumb, pointer, and middle finger into each eye. I gripped each eyeball, twisted, and pulled until each eye popped out of the socket — it felt like a massive struggle, the hardest thing I ever had to do.” She said that the church pastor found her screaming, “I want to see the light.”

In February 2018, Kaylee Muthart ripped out her own eyes, and squished them with her hands during a meth induced psychotic episode. Muthart had been awake for almost 48 hours, snorting and injecting a concoction of tainted methamphetamine. pic.twitter.com/jJM8lPOqX2

— Morbid Knowledge (@Morbidful) February 11, 2024

A student who went viral after tearing out her own eyeballs while high on crystal meth has revealed she has “no regrets” after recently being fired from her job.

Kaylee Muthart, from Anderson, South Carolina, was just 20 years old when she had a serious psychotic episode in 2018 while under the influence of methamphetamine.

Having started smoking marijuana in high school, Kaylee graduated to first smoking, then injecting meth. When her mom ultimately convinced her to go to rehab to get clean, Muthart sought a final high before quitting.

Terrifyingly, the drug made her believe that “everyone would die if I didn’t tear out my eyes immediately”.

“I remember thinking that someone had to sacrifice something important to right the world, and that person was me,” she told South West News Service via The Daily Mail. “I got on my hands and knees, pounding the ground and praying, ‘Why me? Why do I have to do this?’“

She went on to explain: “I pushed my thumb, pointer, and middle finger into each eye. I gripped each eyeball, twisted, and pulled until each eye popped out of the socket — it felt like a massive struggle, the hardest thing I ever had to do.” She said that the church pastor found her screaming, “I want to see the light.”

“He later said, when he found me, that I was holding my eyeballs in my hands. I had squished them, although they were somehow still attached to my head,” Muthart explains. 

The horrific undertaking left Kaylee permanently blind, though she managed to kick her drug habit and has since turned her life around. Part of her self-rebuild included getting a job washing dishes at a local restaurant so she can earn money whilst she completes her education.

In a sad update, it was revealed she’s since been fired from that position, though Kaylee herself claimed she had “no regrets” due to the manner of her dismissal.

Speaking to the Mirror, the student said that she’d lost her job because she was sneaking food out of the restaurant kitchen to feed a hungry cat and her eight kittens.

Kaylee Muthart was 20 when she ripped out her eyes, squishing them with her hands, after snorting and injecting tainted methamphetamine.

“The drugs take your fears and beliefs and amplify them… I thought I had to take my eyes out to survive and save the world.”#DontDoDrugs pic.twitter.com/FbYpx9a0ru

— The Girl Who Said Know (@GirlWhoSaidKnow) February 13, 2024

The owner of the establishment asked her to stop taking the food, leading to her eventual firing when she refused to do so.

“I am feeling positive after the loss of my last job,” Kaylee told the Mirror.

“Being fired never feels good, but I could walk away, knowing that I did what I believed in my heart was right.

“I could not in good conscience leave every night, knowing that there was a kitty right there waiting to be fed so I gave it my meal that I would get for my shift – and ordered it especially for the kitty.”

Describing that it was “hard on her” to then be stripped of the ability to provide for herself as a result, she said: “I would not have been able to walk away from that knowing that I didn’t do what I was convinced in my heart to do.

“So as a result, I am positive every day of my life because I am peaceful, knowing that I live without regretting my choice.”

Outside of losing her job, Kaylee has revealed that she now wears prosthetic eyeballs, saying she wanted to “appear more normal to the outside world.”

“Of course there are times when I get really upset about my situation, particularly on nights when I can’t fall asleep,” said Muthart. “But truthfully, I’m happier now than I was before all this happened. I’d rather be blind than dependent on drugs.”