This guy is very brave for coming out about an embarrassing condition.
Andrew Wardle from Manchester was born with bladder exstrophy, an abnormality which required urgent surgery at the age of one. Although the operation was a success, it left him with no penis.
He has lived with the secret for 40 years, but now there is real hope that doctors can fashion him a fully-working organ – using muscle and skin grafted from his arm.
The ‘Radial Forearm Flap Phalloplasty’ is a series of four surgeries in which doctors will use parts of his forearm to create a penis.
Wardle is the subject of a new programme on TLC in the US, which follows him on his journey as he prepares for the procedure. His girlfriend – from whom he initially hid the truth – also features in the documentary.
“They told me they could build a penis out of my arm,” explains Wardle to People. “But I’m taking it one step at a time and not expecting anything.”
The Mancunian is frank and honest about his situation, and no longer feels he has to hide his predicament.
“I’m at the age where I really don’t care. Since I hit 40, I don’t care what people think or do,” he explains.
Good on you Andrew, and good luck…
