Real stories

Read or listen to real stories from people affected by visible difference, their parents and families, as well as Changing Faces staff and volunteers. Inspired to share your story? We’d love to hear it – share your story now.

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Amanda, a woman in her 40s, who has a cleft lip and palate. She has light brown hair and is wearing a black floral blouse, a black robe with a red lining, and a black hat. She is smiling at the camera.

Amanda’s story: “I wish I’d had a safe space at school”

8 September 2021

Amanda felt ostracized by her friends when she transitioned to secondary school. Now she's encouraging others to speak out about bullying and get support.

Dylan, a teenager, wearing a yellow hoodie and a blue backpack. He's outside walking down a forest path and has turned his head to smile at the camera.

Dylan’s story: “I have learned it’s ok to be different”

2 June 2021

Dylan talks about how educating his classmates about his visible difference helped him grow in confidence and make friends.

A woman with amniotic band syndrome wearing a patterned dress smiles at the camera.

Amanda’s story: “I wouldn’t change my appearance as I wouldn’t be me anymore”

16 December 2020

Amanda has a condition called amniotic band syndrome. Despite the challenges faced, she now accepts her appearance and is a strong self-advocate.

A young woman shows scars on her stomach. Her top reads: "I am not an inspiration, nor a tragedy. I am simply myself."

Jenny’s story: “Everyone deserves to feel safe”

17 November 2020

Jenny's experiences of being bullied at school for having a visible difference inspired her to become a Changing Faces campaigner.