Reclaiming summer: Accepting my body as a man with scars
As Romeo’s friends went shirtless in the summer months, he stayed covered. Accepting his body as a man with scars was hard until he began to work with it rather than against it.
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.
As Romeo’s friends went shirtless in the summer months, he stayed covered. Accepting his body as a man with scars was hard until he began to work with it rather than against it.
Crystal acquired a scar on her stomach during cancer treatment, which she’s been afraid to show. A recent gym experience has enabled her to find empowerment through embracing her scars.
David’s scar developed seemingly out of nowhere, making building confidence after acquiring his scar challenging. But he’s not letting this dull his personality.
Rob talks about the challenges that come from being an LGBTQIA+ person with a visible difference, but also the joy he’s found in his uniqueness.
After acquiring burns scarring at 14, Marc started a journey of self-acceptance. He talks about why learning to love your scars is so important.
Our trustee Tiwonge on ‘Love My Face’, Channel 4’s new series about life with a visible difference, hosted by Jono Lancaster.
Our campaigners Ellie and Romeo talk about how sport has helped them to embrace their visible differences through teaching them resilience, confidence and acceptance.
Robert acquired facial scarring after being assaulted at the age of 15. He’s using his voice as a politician to get better support for others in similar circumstances.
Abigail found creative ways to celebrate and come to terms with her new scar, after struggling with resentment and negative feelings towards it.
Sophie hopes that in the future people won’t feel they have to change their appearance to fit in, like she did.
Allie has experienced cruel comments because of her scar. With the help of Changing Faces, she’s moved past the negativity and found something positive to strive for.
Self-hatred consumed Andrew after acquiring scars following a car crash, but now he’s come to accept himself, even putting himself in the public eye on popular TV show “The Traitors”.