Today, we hear a different perspective — one rarely shared.

In this deeply moving episode of Born For This Stories, Johanna and Peter sit down with Dr. Tarek, a physiotherapist, osteopathic specialist, and founder of the Thrive Beyond the Diagnosis Foundation. Born with a rare and severe form of epispadias that evolved into hypospadias after multiple surgeries, Dr. Tarek opens up about surviving trauma, navigating stigma, and transforming his pain into purpose.

From enduring more than 13 surgeries to pioneering research on pelvic rehabilitation and neuromodulation therapy, his story reveals what true resilience and advocacy look like. He shares how childhood shame and isolation became the foundation for his life's work: helping children and families heal physically, emotionally, and socially after diagnosis.

In this episode:

• How growing up with hypospadias shaped Dr. Tarek's mission to help others

• The emotional and social challenges of childhood in a culture of silence

• How neurodynamic and biofeedback therapies can improve bladder and pelvic function

• Why psychological healing is just as critical as physical recovery

• The importance of empowering siblings, peers, and families to respond with empathy

• The creation of the Thrive Beyond Diagnosis Foundation—and how it's giving a voice to patients and parents worldwide

💬 "We have to make the child know that beyond this diagnosis, it's not the end of the day… It's not the end of time."

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