A Conversation with Nadya Suleman
Photo: AP
On January 26, 2009, Nadya Suleman, an unemployed single mother of six, gave birth to eight babies in a California hospital. An international media frenzy ensued, and tabloids began following the family's every move.
After 14 months of being portrayed in the media as "Octomom"—not Nadya—she decided to send Oprah a letter. "Thus far, the media has depicted a completely false picture of who I am. The trial I've been put through has forced me to see my true self—something I have avoided most of my life. I have been compelled to dig deep inside and pull out strengths I never knew I possessed in order to protect my family. I am not a victim. I do not blame anyone for the circumstances of my life."
Oprah says she had never spoken with Nadya before that letter. "I had reservations about putting myself in this whole media swirl that seems to always surround her," she says. "But I reconsidered after reading this letter from her. And she says she wants the world to see her for who she really is."
After 14 months of being portrayed in the media as "Octomom"—not Nadya—she decided to send Oprah a letter. "Thus far, the media has depicted a completely false picture of who I am. The trial I've been put through has forced me to see my true self—something I have avoided most of my life. I have been compelled to dig deep inside and pull out strengths I never knew I possessed in order to protect my family. I am not a victim. I do not blame anyone for the circumstances of my life."
Oprah says she had never spoken with Nadya before that letter. "I had reservations about putting myself in this whole media swirl that seems to always surround her," she says. "But I reconsidered after reading this letter from her. And she says she wants the world to see her for who she really is."
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