Riverside Resident Struggles With 'Elephant Man' Syndrome

RIVERSIDE, CA — A Riverside man, who suffers from the disfiguring condition known as “Elephant Man” syndrome, recounts in a moving interview his life of trials and tribulations, multiple surgeries and even his “lowest point” when he joined a traveling circus freak show, starring as “The Man with Two Faces.”

Yet despite his daily challenges with neurofibromatosis, the official name for the genetic disorder, Eddy Newton, 47, assists others as his life’s calling — founding a non-profit ministry entitled “Eddy Unmasked,” speaking about self-esteem issues to students, volunteering at a Tijuana orphanage and assisting with such efforts as hurricane relief, according to his friends on a GoFundMe campaign and the Fox news story.

Newton, who routinely has tumors growing in his skull, inherited the syndrome from his mother, who has a less severe case of the disease — a condition that became more well-known from the 1980 film “The Elephant Man,” that detailed the life of sufferer Joseph Merrick in 19th-century London.

Newton and his mother currently reside in a dilapidated mobile home, desperately in need of repairs, according to the hosts of the fundraising effort on GoFundMe, entitled “Help Eddy Newton.”

“Surprisingly, Eddy does not let his medical, financial, or living condition bring him down,” the campaign organizers said. “He is always cheerful and outgoing. Eddy is the first to volunteer to help others and brings much joy and comfort to many. Although he seldom has a spare penny and barely manages the necessities, Eddy still finds time and money to help others.

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“Eddy and his mother live in a mobile home that is in serious need of repairs,” according to the website. “The home is not suitable for human habitation. It has been severely damaged by fires and literally is falling apart inside. Eddy does not discuss his home or permit anyone to visit him there. This undoubtedly is because he is ashamed and embarrassed by his appalling living conditions.

“We hope that you can contribute generously to help improve Eddy’s living conditions and provide funding necessary to expand his incredible ministry. You will not find anyone more deserving of your generosity.”

–GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner