This video predates the discovery of Joseph Merrick's proper name (Joseph, not John) as well as his diagnosis of Proteus Syndrome.Neurofibromatosis was once thought to be the sole cause behind the deformities of Joseph 'The Elephant Man' Merrick. While that theory is likely incorrect, it is easy to see why the disease was pegged. Many researchers still believe Merrick had both Neurofibromatosis and Proteus as his deformities are not typical of either affliction. The gentleman in this video has a serious form of Neurofibromatosis, lesser types manifest in small knots and skin tags.