In part 1 of this essay series, I shared a little bit of my family’s experience with Stickler Syndrome, including how we finally found out we had it. Today, I’d like to tell you what it’s like to live with this disorder. While I’ve lived with Stickler Syndrome my whole life, I didn’t know I had it. I have always been severely nearsighted. At the time of this writing, my prescription is a -18.5. Most eye doctors I see, including some specialists, are astonished by me. I

I was painfully shy growing up. I’m still shy now, but nowhere near as bad as I used to be. I’m socially awkward. Always have been, always will be. I hate small talk. I’m not good at it. I’d much rather have a deep discussion with someone than participate in polite, surface level chatter.