The Whittakers: A Tale of Genetic Challenges and Unconventional Communication

The Whittakers: A Tale of Genetic Challenges and Unconventional Communication

The Whittaker Family: A Unique Case of Genetic Illnesses

Nestled in the town of Odd, West Virginia, is a family that has gained significant international recognition for their unique genetic conditions: the Whittakers. This family was first brought into the international spotlight by photographer Mark Laita in his 2008 book, “Created Equal”. The family’s fame surged once again in 2020 when Laita revisited them to record a documentary that depicted the impacts of inbreeding and the difficult conditions the surviving family members were living in. This documentary quickly went viral, garnering over 25 million views.

Communication Through Unconventional Means

One of the most striking aspects of the Whittaker family’s situation is their reliance on unconventional means of communication, including grunts and barks. This unique mode of interaction is a result of their genetic disorders, which have significantly hindered their ability to communicate in conventional ways. Some family members, such as Ray and his cousin Timmy, communicate through faint grunts, while Ray’s sibling Lorraine is unable to speak at all.

The Impact of Inbreeding

Inbreeding is held partially accountable for the Whittaker family’s undiagnosed developmental issues. Over generations, inbreeding has led to the manifestation of numerous genetic disorders amongst their members, including heart disease, blindness, limb malformations, and more. Children born from inbreeding are exposed to a higher risk of recessive genetic disorders. In addition, they suffer from reduced cognitive abilities, decreased fertility, and increased infant mortality. The most common physical signs of inbreeding in humans are reduced height, decreased cognitive abilities, and impaired muscular function.

The Whittaker Family Lineage

The Whittaker family’s inbreeding started with first cousins marrying each other. The family currently consists of three siblings named Timmy, Ray, and Lorraine. The siblings’ parents were double first cousins, meaning their parents were first cousins born from twin brothers. The family further expanded as these cousins decided to get married and had 15 children of their own. Many of these children could not survive infancy or died at a young age.

A Glimpse into their Lives

The Whittaker family lives in an isolated state, with neighbors being incredibly protective of them. The family members are often seen walking around, their eyes going in different directions, barking at people who approach them. This behavior is usually seen among individuals with severe communication challenges, further illustrating the extent of the impact of their genetic conditions.

Support for the Whittaker Family

In 2022, Mark Laita launched a fundraiser campaign on a popular fundraising platform to help improve the living conditions of the Whittaker family. The fundraiser has since raised substantial funds that have been used for home improvements, including a new roof and kitchen refit. Laita has continued to chronicle the Whittaker family’s life in his podcast, “Soft White Underbelly”, which specializes in interviews and portraits of the human condition.

Conclusion

The Whittaker family’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the profound ways genetic illnesses can impact individuals and families. Their case underscores the importance of medical research and health support for those with genetic illnesses. It also emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding for people living with such conditions, as they often have to resort to unique methods to carry out everyday tasks that others might take for granted.