Now, shes preparing to live independently and has expressed her desire to become a mother.
Thats not who I am.
But that seems to be the only thing that people knowand thats why it hurts me a lot.
Natalia was born in Ukraine in 2003.
However, the couple soon relinquished parental rights because of Natalias alleged disruptive behavior, as perPeople.
The Barnetts alleged thatNataliawas an adult who had lied about her age.
I feel like I was brainwashed by the Barnetts.
Their petition was granted, and Natalias age was legally changed from 8 to 22 years old.
I really disliked being the girl who was re-aged and lived in her own apartment, she said.
I didnt understand why I was alone.
I just knew I had this instinct in me to push and survive.
All I was told was, Youre 22 now.
I was taught to lie.
Natalia says the Barnetts brainwashed her and coached her to lie about her real age.
Do I look like I could even grip a knife?
I feel like I was brainwashed by the Barnetts.
Kristine coached me to lie about my age and say I tried to murder my parents.
Why would you do that to your child?
I always knew I wasnt an adult.
Nobody ever took a belt to Natalia, and the allegations that she was beaten are just plain false.
The family has since referred to Natalia as a sociopath.
In 2023, Cynthia and Antwon legally adopted Natalia.
Living with the Manses, Natalia learned to look after heryounger siblings.
I learned how to be a mother.
I helped raise three of them since they were babies.
Natalia declined to comment on these accusations, which the Manses deny.
It was an emotional time.
I had to spread my wings.
Natalia currently lives with Nicole and Vince DePaulwho also have dwarfismand their daughter, Mackenzie.
Ive had too many promises that have been broken.
Im a girl who loves kids and wants to get married and have children.
But one of my biggest things is not making promises I cant keep.
Ive had too many promises that have been broken.
Im just ready to move on.
Its been a big learning curve for me.
For the most part, Ive made peace.
It is definitely a blessing to be alive today.
And theres nothing I can do to change the past.
People continue to question Natalias age and debate which side is telling the truth
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