Born to Be Different, Channel 4 - TV review: A truly life-affirming watch

The series brought home just how hard life can be for parents and siblings of disabled children

Born To Be Different (Channel 4)

Not all telly should provide light entertainment. At its most powerful, TV gives us an unrivalled insight into the remarkable lives people lead. For the past 15 years, Channel 4's Born to Be Different has followed six children born with disabilities; a sort of alternative to the BBC's Child of Our Time. As the children now approach their 16th birthdays, the latest series reunites them and their families to celebrate how far they have come.

Episode one followed teenagers Zoe, William and Shelbie. Of all three, Zoe, who has arthrogryposis – a condition that severely affects movement in her limbs – was the only one whose life was not severely threatened. The sunny 15-year-old overcame her confidence issues to be appointed deputy head girl.

But life for William and Shelbie – and their families – was much harder. William, who has autism and learning difficulties, also struggles with a life-threatening tumour. Shelbie was born with trisomy 9, a severely limiting rare chromosome condition. Her parents fought for her right to life repeatedly, and she has defied the doctors to beat the odds every time. But her family were faced with the difficult reality that it may become harder to keep her alive as she continues to deteriorate.

The series brought home just how hard life can be for parents and siblings of disabled children – especially when faced with the hard truth that their loved may not survive. Although sad at times, the resilience, love and dedication showed by the teenagers' parents made Born to Be Different a truly life-affirming watch.