Ep 3. Half Man, Half Tree

In the third episode of the first season of My Shocking Story, we delve into the life of a man who suffers from a rare skin condition, aptly named "Tree Man Syndrome." Dede Koswara, a 36-year-old from Indonesia, has been living with this condition for over 20 years, causing him to grow gnarled, bark-like lesions all over his body that resemble tree bark.

The episode takes us through Dede's life story, starting with his childhood, where he first started to experience symptoms of the rare disease. We see how his condition has impacted not only his body but also his life as a whole. His appearance has made it difficult for him to work and live a normal life, forcing him to become a sideshow spectator in a traveling circus.

Through interviews with Dede's family, doctors, and friends, we start to understand the complexity and challenges of the Tree Man Syndrome, and the toll it has taken on Dede's life. We also learn about the medical procedures that Dede underwent to try to treat his condition, and how he continued to be a part of medical research that could help others with similar conditions.

The show takes us on a journey that is as difficult as it is inspiring. From the basics of the disease and the toll it takes on Dede's daily life, to the hopes and possibilities that stem from medical research and treatments, the episode is a comprehensive look at Dede's life. We see how he becomes a beacon of hope for people all over the world who are suffering from rare diseases, fighting every day with optimism and strength to overcome his struggles.

Overall, the episode is a poignant exploration of the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope, and that if we are willing to fight, we can overcome even the most improbable of challenges.