Lila Santilli is one of the well-known people with Noonan syndrome. Noonan syndrome also called leopard syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects about 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 2,500 people worldwide. It causes distinctive facial features, short height, heart problems, and other health issues.
This article will discuss celebrities with Noonan syndrome and their health problems.
Names of Famous People with Noonan Syndrome
Noonan Syndrome can be challenging, but some famous people with it have shown that it doesn’t define them or limit their potential. They use their fame to raise awareness and inspire others. They show that people with Noonan syndrome can achieve great things by sharing their stories. I have compiled a list of famous people with Noonan syndrome.
- Lila Santilli
- Yorke Parkin
- Michaela DePrince
- Ben Stiller
- Drew Thortenson
- Tim Burton
- Benjamin Cipriano
- Jakob-Anthony Handley
- Josiah Ives
- Lizzie Armour
Lila Santilli
Lila Santilli is a 4-year-old with Noonan syndrome, featured in the book “Lila Lu and the Things I Love to Do.” The book, a gift from her mom, Laura, celebrates Lila’s lively spirit and raises awareness about her condition. Noonan syndrome affects her development, requiring speech therapy. The book has become her favorite, and some of its sales support health initiatives.
| Profession | – |
Yorke Parkin
Yorke Parkin is a 14-year-old skier with Noonan syndrome. Despite this, he loves skiing and racing. He trains four times a week and goes to the gym often. Yorke also competes in Special Olympics sports and recently won a regional skiing competition, moving on to the Provincial Games. His story shows his determination and ability to inspire others.
| Profession | Skier |
Michaela DePrince
Michaela DePrince is a 29-year-old well-known ballet dancer. She was adopted from Sierra Leone when she was four and later found out she had Noonan syndrome. Despite facing discrimination because of her race and disability, she became a soloist with the Dutch National Ballet and has been featured in many magazines and documentaries.
| Profession | Dancer |
Ben Stiller
Ben Stiller, a famous actor and comedian, has Noonan syndrome. He found out about it when he was 14 and has been open about his journey with it. Stiller has had several heart surgeries and faced learning challenges, but he hasn’t let it stop him. He’s succeeded as an actor, writer, and director despite his diagnosis.
| Profession | Actor, Director, Producer |
Drew Thortenson
Katie Thortenson talks about her son Drew, who has Noonan syndrome. Born with heart problems, Drew spent three months in the hospital. Katie found support through the Noonan Syndrome Foundation (NSF) and now serves on its board. At two years old, Drew is getting growth hormone treatment and improving. Katie works to raise awareness and improve care for children with Noonan syndrome.
| Profession | – |
Tim Burton
Tim Burton, a renowned director and producer, also has Noonan syndrome. As a child, he faced difficulties with social interactions and bullying because of his appearance. However, he found comfort in drawing and went on to pursue a career in the arts. Burton is famous for his distinctive and imaginative style in movies like “Edward Scissorhands” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
| Profession | Film Director, Producer, and Writer |
Benjamin Cipriano
Benjamin Cipriano, a 16-year-old with Noonan Syndrome, kept straight A’s even after heart surgery. He recovered well, despite four cardiac arrests. People sometimes judge him for his looks, but Ben uses humor and positivity to cope. His cardiologist, Dr. Brandy Hattendorf, diagnosed him four years ago.
| Profession | – |
Jakob-Anthony Handley
Jakob-Anthony Handley, a 13-year-old from South Surrey, has Noonan syndrome and needs surgery for his droopy eyelid. The reports show that the community supported his family with donations for travel expenses. Diagnosed at six months old, Jakob-Anthony has faced various health issues. The community’s support has been crucial for his family.
| Profession | – |
Josiah Ives
Josiah Ives is a 5-year-old who has Noonan syndrome. He had a special day at the 500 Festival Parade with race-car driver Josef Newgarden. Josiah enjoyed the parade and came home to a race car-themed bedroom makeover. The event, organized by local groups, made Josiah’s day unforgettable and showed strong community support.
| Profession | – |
Lizzie Armour
Reports show that Lizzie Armour, in her mid-40s, has Noonan syndrome and has faced early health issues. Despite this, she runs marathons and stays active. Her parents, Diana and Chris, supported her through frequent hospital visits and health struggles. Lizzie’s resilience and her family’s support have helped her succeed.
| Profession | – |
Also Read: Celebrities with Lupus
