ENGLISH “TOM THUMB”

Opotiki News, Volume II, Issue 222, 18 August 1939, Page 3

ENGLISH “TOM THUMB”

THEFE-iY EAR-OLD BOY Because of a gland no bigger than a split pea, Thomas AVilliams. justthree years old, although perfectly formed, is barely 141 b. in weight and 25 in. tall. Aucl it is unlikely that he will ever grow any bigger. When born lie was a miniature I aby, just Tib., but nurses and doctors assured his parents, Air. and Airs. Thomas Henry W illiams. of l pper Drayton Place, Croydon. Surrey, that their tiny son would soon grow to normal weight and height. In spite of careful nursing and the most skilful medical attention, Tommy did not grow as they Imped, and at the age of two was only his present height and weight. Since then lie has not grown at all. Doctors now say he will probably not grow oily more. Tommy is a. rare ease oi deficient pituitary gland formation. Laughingly, the kiddies call him “Tom Thumb” ; they pick him up and carry him under their arms, when it is his turn to run. during a game ol “tag.” Tommy dees not mind; he loves all games. And he is as intelligent as the average boy of liis years. His father often sends him />ut on errands. It is a common sight in Croydon shops to see "Tapi Thumb” standing on a chair to place seme pennies on the shop counter lor his sweets.