Constant struggle: Young British girl with rare genetic disorder that leaves her perpetually hungry

Holly works as a beautician, skilled in enhancing the attractiveness of women's lips and lashes and keeping a wrinkle-free face. However, these skills offer little help in her fight against Harlow's obesity. The 5-year-old girl has already gained over 44 pounds of excess weight. Holly is trying everything she can to restrict Harlow's access to food.

"We knew something was wrong when Harlow was born. She was very limp, lacked strength, didn't cry and didn't suckle properly from the bottle" Holly told "The Sun".

The genetic disorder has delayed Harlow's development. She couldn't hold her head up until she was eight months old and did not start walking until she was 2.5 years old.

"I ensure that she maintains a healthy and balanced diet but still give her occasional treats. After all, she's only a child, and I don't want to completely deprive her," Holly admits.

Mobility issues, sleep apnea, and fits of anger also haunt the little girl. Currently, a special barrier separates Harlow from the kitchen and its contents, but Holly realizes that she will need to explore other strategies as her daughter grows older.

Holly is not alone. Although Prader-Willi Syndrome is rare, it affects children worldwide. These children's parents must supervise them throughout the day. Some parents resort to locking the refrigerator and cupboards, while others secure the entire kitchen. Any moment of distraction or forgetting can prompt the child to go in search of food.

Most children with Prader-Willi Syndrome hardly leave the house. Schools and supermarkets are full of food, and the consistent feeling of hunger may compel the children or teenagers to consume the first thing they encounter. They pay no mind to whether the food belongs to someone else or if it needs to be paid for. As the disorder is not widely recognized, overweight children and their parents often face criticism.

"The way my disabled, innocent 5-year-old is being referred to disgusts me. It's distressing when she cannot defend herself, especially when the insult comes from someone supposed to care for you! It's comforting to know that I'll always stand up for her, all her life, despite our everyday struggle. She's the most resilient girl I know, and I'll always be proud to call her MY little girl," Holly shared in an emotional Facebook post.

It is reported that individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome can "eat themselves to death". Overeating does not trigger their vomiting reflexes, unlike in healthy individuals.