Sandra’s story: “I am who I am, and I love that”
Growing up, Sandra felt like her birthmark was a taboo subject, causing her to feel a sense of shame around it. Now she is proud to be who she is, birthmark and all.
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.
Growing up, Sandra felt like her birthmark was a taboo subject, causing her to feel a sense of shame around it. Now she is proud to be who she is, birthmark and all.
Ashley and Jordan have already experienced negativity towards their son Theo's birthmark, prompting them to raise awareness of Theo's condition and offer tips to others in similar situations.
Rob speaks about the importance of being an ally to people with visible differences, and why empathy is the key to everything.
For the visible difference community, Halloween can be a terrifying reminder of the association between difference and monstrosity. Campaigner Chris believes films aren’t helping.
Dressing up for Halloween is part of the fun, but Sophie is asking people to think about the impact of using a condition as a costume.
Hannah experienced bullying throughout school. She wants better education around visible differences so other children don’t have to go through the same.
Having a birthmark made Richard feel like an outsider, but with the help of an amazing support network, he’s learnt to have confidence in himself.
Chris used to emotionally detach himself from situations to cope with stares, but being the centre of attention at his wedding has given him newfound confidence.
As a child, Toni was in and out of hospital because of her visible difference, impacting her confidence. Changing Faces helped her to accept herself.
Baby Lola has a strawberry birthmark. Here, her mum, Lucy, talks about the importance of representation and the birthmark community.
After being bullied at school, Beverley considered removing her birthmark, but then she realised that her love for herself was more important than anything.
After using skin camouflage products since she was a child, Felicity decided to become a Skin Camouflage Practitioner - and support others using our service.