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HOLMBERG: Teen with dwarfism is looking for a lift — and understanding

Posted at 12:16 AM, Dec 06, 2013
and last updated 2013-12-06 00:16:55-05

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) -- Brandon “Brad” Farbstein is still childlike in size, but for a 14-year-old, he comes across very much like an adult.

Serious, warm, engaging, mature.

He’s not shy about is life’s ambition:

“When I grow up I want to be a journalist,” he said. “I want to go into broadcasting, maybe a news anchor. My real lifelong dream, the big dream of mine, is to be on something like “World News with Diane Sawyer” or “Good Morning America.”

But this ambitious teen who also loves singing and acting could use a lift.

When he was two years old he was diagnosed with a rare form of dwarfism.

As he grew older, he didn’t grow much bigger. He had two major surgeries on his legs.

His condition makes walking distances difficult and painful. Wheelchairs and Hoverounds are heavy and would mean way too much sitting.

But a Segway . . .

He caught a couple of rides at Segway of Richmond and fell in love. It’s perfect: brisk, quiet, mobile and keeps him upright.

Brandon decided to reach out to you through a Facebook page,Help Brad Move, to see he could get a little financial help through some products he’s selling but also to let you know how the world turns for people with his condition.

“I want people to see who I am,” he said. “I want to share my story with people.”

If he reaches the top of a profession famously focused on appearances, no doubt those who Help Brad Move will be part of a giant-sized story.

Click here to visit the "Help Brad Move" Facebook page.