'I was born with half a face' | An Australian man's incredible battle | My Big Story Documentary

[@skc828]

Loved this story. Another 'must watch' from My Big Story. Thanks for bringing it to us MBS! Can't wait to see what's next - glad I subscribed!!

[@MyBigStory]

Thanks so much for watching and subscribing, Sam! Joel is a legend.

[@redcrescent6557]

What a fine man this Joel is , a good soul with a good heart..

[@MyBigStory]

He really is. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@stelmosfire11]

I don’t think he’s ugly at all and I’m not just saying that to show compassion. Lovely guy.

[@melaniejonker8828]

Wow! The world needs more people like you, Sir. 👍

[@MyBigStory]

It would be a MUCH better place, Melanie. Thanks for engaging with us.

[@melaniejonker8828]

@@MyBigStory Ditto ... Really looking forward to more Big Stories! 🤗

[@justsandra71]

What a beautiful man inside and out ❤ Thank you for sharing 👍

[@MyBigStory]

Sandra, thanks so much for watching and commenting. Joel is an inspiration to us all.

[@rockyfarfan]

Great story. You're true example of never be afraid on Confronting your fears and never give up on your dreams no matter what anyone says. All the best Joel.

[@MyBigStory]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting. Joel is an inspiration. We hope many, many people have the opportunity to see his story.

[@urmelausdemeis4743]

Joel is a very inspiring man. It is amazing how he has turned his fate! Thumbs up from Germany for telling us his story 👍

[@MyBigStory]

Thanks for the kind words. Joel is an amazing man.

[@urmelausdemeis4743]

@@MyBigStory he definitely is 😊

[@christyyyy2912]

I'm smiling while watching this... What a beautiful soul!

[@Lyn4817]

People are so cruel. There is nothing wrong with Joel. You never got bullied because there is nothing wrong with you mate, none of us are perfect. Some just more challenged than others. You are a wonderful human being who has endured far more than any human should have to endure. I would like to believe being an Aussie, life has been easier for you. I am so sorry about your mate PJ. Your choice of celebrating PJ's life was perfect. He would have been so proud in being able to call you his mate and I imagine, like wise.

[@matthewnicholson2699]

So inspiring! The confidence he has despite his condition truly brings out the beauty in this mans soul

[@LSD123.]

Seems like a really nice guy, Would love to have a few beers and a yarn with him.

[@MyBigStory]

He has A LOT of good stories! (Plenty in his book too - link in description 😉)

[@MamaTriedSolo]

Yarn? Means chat?

[@lildoveable]

I would too.

[@gojo2194]

Gorgeous man, good to hear his story.

[@me_TJ_MrB]

What a great guy and an awesome story. His parents did a fantastic job in raising him, but he did an even better job of accepting these lessons. I hope he continues as a motivational speaker. Best of luck Sir.

[@shaunattwoodOFFICIAL]

Go Joel!

[@xyzyahya5449]

hi shaun

[@Kate-to3xq]

What a great personality shines through. No complaining but making the most of life.

[@MyBigStory]

Puts a few things into perspective, doesn't it? Thanks for watching and engaging with us, Kate.

[@earthbound4now474]

Well done Joel, it's not the packaging but the wonderful soul within that matters. May God use you in a mighty way❤

[@kellypatmore9402]

Joel...U 100% ROCk!! I hope u achieve all u set out 2 do & that Ur life is full of awesomely Wikid memories 2 come. \m/

[@jb6712]

I guess I must be getting really old, because I can't understand one single thing you wrote---or chopped up, more like---because there aren't any real words, just a lot of silly gibberish.

[@subatomic10]

@@jb6712 If you were practising kindness like Joel requested, you would've asked politely for the interpretation

[@norlavine]

What a beautiful man!..and what a story!

[@MyBigStory]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting, Norla.

[@johnphilipfosterdobson551]

My uncle loved his glass eye, his favorite tricks were to put it into someone's drink, or in his mouth and smile.

[@SureYoureRight]

Lmaoooo🤣🤣🤣 dopest uncle ever 😂😂😂

[@chrissyballantyne4779]

LoL he sounds like a character. My grandfather had one too and used to play tricks on people by turning it around lol.

[@johnphilipfosterdobson551]

He was a New Zealand, WW2 vet, fought the Afrika Korps and any British Military Police also the odd Australian. Was awarded the Military Medal, for escaping the germans and and reporting the location of captured NZ forces. George Dobson MM 14th Light AA Regt. Loved his beer 🍺.

[@Michael.Chapman]

You’ve made a huge difference, thank you Joel.

[@timtam20292]

What an amazing man. Beautiful story xx

[@tiffanyandeithan9831]

wow , Im so happy that he didn’t get bullied 😊

[@GR8Tmate]

What a wonderful guy with a beautiful outlook on life. I’d be absolutely stoked to have a mate like that. Legend 👍

[@edwardli8938]

Joel, you have impacted much more than “one person”! You have inspired me today, and probably every person who watched this or anything about you. You & your story are so amazing! God bless you, PJ and everyone in your life.

[@nifty1940]

You're a great bloke mate. We need more in the world like you.

[@Simon1985_]

I remember having a huge cyst on my face (that was eventually removed with surgery leaving a big scar on my left cheek). It just appeared when I was in my late 20’s out of nowhere, but it looked terrible and I was so self conscious of it. Kids are gonna stare which I could get around but when adults did I got so angry. I don’t know how this guy kept his cool when that idiot at the party said that to him.

[@elainebines6803]

So lovely he spent that time with PJ in Sydney and that their lives, crossed paths 💞

[@shubhadeepdasgupta3746]

What a beautiful soul this man has.. Really inspiring!

[@amberlance3221]

I am in complete admiration of this man and the judgements he has had to overcome. Beauty is so much more than skin deep and his mother was 100% right that he was so much more beautiful than the people staring. What I don't think most people realise is that, a person can notice if you are staring at them, or staring at a specific part of their body. Treat others how you wish to be treated, don't ogle like a cretin.

[@lizthomas6347]

Thank you for this story, I wish Joel well throughout his life although I don't think he needs it. He will make a difference to many lives.

[@monicarobey9994]

YOU are a shining light to ALL……

[@christianromero6604]

What a lucky nice man...I'm so glad he was never bullied

[@joanhenschel3511]

What a precious man. This story will mull in my head when I'm in a dark place.

[@vladnychyk4900]

What a legend Joel is ! I hope him all the best in life 🤗🤜🤛

[@rickvillareal7405]

Listening and watching his story is such an inspiration to all. His positive mindset and his parents' positive upbringings contribute the person he is right now. This is truly an affirmation that the "inner beauty" of a person is what makes us beautiful and people should not be judged by their outer looks. It's the beauty from within that radiates from inside that makes a person beautiful in the true sense of the word. God bless you Joel, more power.

[@puppystaffordshire2123]

Wish I had the same attitude as Joel.

[@MyBigStory]

He's an inspiration. Thanks so much for watching and commenting.

[@mistayuto]

Such an inspiring and positive outlook on life. All the best Joel!

[@MaiTran-vy9lo]

Thank “my big story” with incredible mind for study ………👍👍👍💐

[@jennimcdonald7115]

Marvelous man wonderful story. Keep on keeping on 💜

[@aleksandarkruscich7339]

What an inspirational man. God gives the hardest of battles to the hardest of soldiers. Keep the dream. Bless you.

[@immortalxd6190]

What an amazing man...May God always be with him ❤️

[@starrfarish8357]

The dog story was funny. I have to give Joel credit for all the hurt he has had to deal with over the years. Not sure if I could myself. It would be an honor to meet him someday.

[@garyaddler7711]

Hello 👋.

[@MyBigStory]

He is a special human. Thanks for watching!

[@anton7579]

U r beautiful and very optimistic of life u r amazing i love ur nature ur good soul i wish i find someone like you xxxxx

[@janicewilliams2537]

Such a great outlook on life. I want that positivity in my life. Inspirers me to be more understanding of others and not let other people and their actions effect my day to day life. There is a bigger picture we can’t see. And he can.

[@rainey7377]

What a truly beautiful man, with an amazing outlook

[@AdelAbuAlaa]

All i can say : He has very beautiful soul

[@brendanashby6624]

One thing you're definitely wrong about mate people are definitely deliberately nasty and work hard to be so. So don't ever think that they're not deliberately nasty because they are but there also is a lot of good people out there as well

[@immortalxd6190]

True sir...but really sad

[@xDahliaJay]

I love his mindset! He has a good heart, he has such a positive attitude. His mother should be proud of herself ♥️♥️♥️

[@gisborne1847]

Wouldn't be a pleasure to have a mate like Joel. What a good bloke!

[@leelee2350]

Sir that man who called you ugly is clueless. You are simply wondeful and handsome in my eyes.

[@gcinamkhize5473]

Oh W🔥W............... He is AMAZING! 🙏 Blessings to him always! 🏵☘💥

[@Jeng4280]

He’s not ugly at all and has a good heart. Some people can be so cruel to others.

[@suzanne7277]

I love his positive and kind spirit. He is an inspiration

[@chronicallyfabulous88]

What baffles me the most is when people say things like that and mean it as a compliment. I'm not saying that was the case in this instance, because I don't think it was. But in my experience, it's often been the case. They think they're saying, "Wow, I really admire your temerity. I'd kill myself if I had to live your life." But even if they'd worded it like that, it would still be an abhorent thing to say to anyone. Growing up disabled, I've heard it countless times. Stone-cold sober adults even said it to me when I was a child and they clearly thought they were imparting some profound wisdom wrapped in a compliment. But all I heard was, "Your life clearly isn't worth living." Fortunately, I was also born with a surplus of stubborn will, so my instinctive response to people like that was always, "Wtf do they know?? I determine my life's worth! To hell with people like that!" I didn't really feel a need to prove anything to people whose opinions I had no respect for, even as a kid, so I've always just gotten on with my life in whatever way made sense to me, at the time. But honestly, I could write a book just listing all the appalling things that abled people say to disabled and chronically ill people, and people with physical differences. The hashtag #AbledsAreWeird on Twitter is a great catalogue of many of them, from across the world. Every abled person should read those tweets.

[@immortalxd6190]

You are so very correct when you say this...it really is bemusing to say the least

[@ruthkletke]

Joel, you are an amazing man. I feel that PJ is looking down and happy that you have continued the journey. Every one that knows you must be soooo proud. (Greetings from Canada)

[@roccofortura2468]

what a beautiful man. We need more people like you to make this world better. God bless you and thank you.

[@MsBlueRyan]

Thanks Joel. Your story is amazing :)

[@patsmith9284]

Man looks on the outward appearance, God looks at the heart. You have a wonderful heart.

[@jerrychetty2524]

You are a good fine and strong minded young man and I have the most respect for you

[@miltondesilva542]

What a man.

[@ThatTaRaGiRL]

Loved that he was a popular kid. Sweet guy deserves anything good and kind that goes his way. The guy that insulted him at the bar is the one that had something going on, just as this fellow says. Awesome dude!!

[@lewis7515]

The strength of the guy.

[@lanapetrovic179]

May God bless you darling child and keep you in His care always and forever amen 🙏💙😇

[@ksc9954]

Why would someone say that ? Very heartless..

[@MyBigStory]

It is, but it was how Joel handled it that sets him apart from most people. A lesson in resilience. He is a gentleman. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@quitsevensix]

For him to joke and say 'It's hard to face' was amazing! Nice one m8

[@StepheBrown]

You're an inspiration mate, thank you. Blessings be yours always 💝

[@gzimvila7025]

Damn he should be a mentor.

[@robinyoung6533]

What an inspiration. We should all want to be like him.

[@eleni1968]

Glad I subscribed. Joel Whiwell is an AMAZING human being and an AMAZING MAN!!!!

[@MyBigStory]

Agree wholeheartedly, Helene. Thanks so much for watching, and for subscribing.

[@katemchardy542]

What an amazing guy you are Joel.

[@michelleferguson17]

GOD BLESS you Joel💖💖✨✨💜💜 I wish you were my friend. You just showed/ taught me a whole lot. Especially about being in a dark place. Thanks for sharing your story sweetheart

[@Trouble-Clef]

He’s such a positive guy and we could all learn from him. Maybe that’s his legacy.

[@Grub370]

Heart warming story, thank you.

[@fayebrown914]

I LOVE your SMILE! You have a wonderful outlook on life! Your family must be VERY proud of you! I am sorry for your loss. He may be right by your side, traveling the world with you. I say that, because my father talked to me 3 DAYS AFTER he DIED. (He was upset and concerned about me. I had been in bed for 3 days, because I was upset and depressed about his death. He said loudly to me, "Get UP, Faye Ann!" "Get UP, Faye Ann!" I did not want my father to be upset, so I got up.) Keep Smiling & Take Care!

[@subatomic10]

What a great Aussie Legend and role model for all ! Thankyou for sharing his story

[@No4Marise]

WOW!!! Joel, you are terrific!! I really LOVE that you are ... who you are. You have a great outlook on life and exude your positive attitude. No doubt, your Mom, Dad and family's love and their undeserved kindness, made you the strong character that you are. Don't EVER change for anyone. With warm love, ME, MYSELF & I.

[@ortalslavin8612]

Wow, such an amazing person....u r making a difference. Love your story. Good luck

[@margaretcooper797]

A courageous young man who has overcome so much in his life,he is a real hero

[@ChewiestBacca]

This bloke is amazing 👏

[@Funkylogic]

Joel is a bloody champion!!!

[@melaniecrow1433]

A TRUE INSPIRATION. MAY YOU BE BLESSED.

[@annetteheale9684]

What a beautiful soul. Love your positivity on life my friend. Your family and friends are so lucky to have you in their lives.

[@mrsV420]

Wow! What am extraordinary person! And awesome people he grew up with! 👌🏼🙏🏻🙌🏼

[@mrsV420]

Seeing this makes me think how ungrateful we are!! He makes me want to be better 🙏🏻

[@milannikolic2313]

God bless you my friend there is nothing wrong with you my brother keep going love and respect for you my friend ❤️❤️

[@gemmapickard9963]

Such a lovely story .. love his positive outlook on life. Thank god for people like this :)

[@wenikasibulu8270]

What a beautiful person you are Joel....God bless your tomorrows.

[@mirtham2372]

WOW!!! What an amazing man!!!

[@lateshiaelizabeth]

People are evil but you are beautiful inside out ❤️

[@colinjava8447]

Glad they cleaned the eye before putting if back in, very cool guy.

[@stanleyrobson4622]

Inspirational story!

[@TheRose5357]

I bet his mate is looking down at him with the biggest smile and is very proud 😊

[@michelleh.188]

Thank you so very much for sharing your story! God bless you and keep you smiling! You’re beautiful inside and. Out!🙏🏼

[@maxholden435]

With your attitude m8 your a champion m8 dont let anyone tell you any different keep looking forward

[@icantcook9998]

Mate you have more courage than most people I know including me

[@sarahschmidt4177]

Beauty shines out from you. Your mother was right; she saw your beauty and so does God. May He bless you always.

[@timwest225]

Man-O- Manischewitz Glad I found this channel. Ashland Ky. USA

[@MyBigStory]

Welcome, Tim! Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing.

[@susanmyers6375]

Thanks for sharing your story. You are born to help others for sure. I pray for you that GOD always blesses your journey.

[@princessacoast4820]

You are wonderful.

[@chorcor888]

Very inspiring sir. Thank you.