Imagine being born with so much extra skin that doctors said it could fit a 5-year-old—while you’re just a newborn. That’s exactly what happened when Tomm Tennent was born in South East Australia in 1993, and his story continues to move people even decades later.

From the beginning, Tomm’s case baffled doctors. Ultrasounds had shown something unusual, making his parents, Geoff and Debbie, question what to do. But with strength and love, they decided to continue the pregnancy. “What’s meant to be is meant to be,” Geoff said.

Nothing could have prepared them for the moment Tomm arrived. Debbie recalled, “My heart came up to my throat, but it was still lovely to hold him.” Tomm was born with deep folds and wrinkles all over his body—a sight that shocked even experienced doctors.

With no clear cause or treatment, doctors hoped that as Tomm grew, his body would slowly adjust. And they were right.

Researchers later discovered that Tomm had an unusually high level of hyaluronic acid—the same substance that gives Shar Pei puppies their wrinkled look. Like those dogs, it was believed that Tomm’s skin would smooth out with age, and over time, it did.

His early years weren’t easy. Tomm was teased and excluded because of how he looked. But with the support of his family and doctors, he kept moving forward.

Now, more than 30 years later, Tomm lives a quiet life in Frankston, Victoria, Australia. He’s married to a woman named Hannah, and while he keeps a low profile, one message from his Facebook page speaks volumes:

“Life’s simple. You make choices, and you don’t look back.”

Tomm’s journey is a powerful reminder that beauty, strength, and resilience can take many forms—and that with love and courage, even the most unusual beginnings can lead to a fulfilling life.