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.
Living with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) has shaped many parts of Phil's life, from navigating public reactions to facing discrimination at work. The support of his family and community has helped him remember that he is far more than his appearance.
Ada found it difficult to leave the house due to concerns about people’s reactions to her keloid scars. Now she’s re-building her confidence and has even had her portrait painted.
Lola shares what it's like being a teenager with Goldenhar syndrome and a visible difference. She reflects on living with vision and hearing differences, dealing with staring, finding confidence, and the support that helped her accept herself.
Living with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) has shaped many parts of Phil's life, from navigating public reactions to facing discrimination at work. The support of his family and community has helped him remember that he is far more than his appearance.
Louise Wright, CEO of Changing Faces, reflects on supporting her daughter with a visible difference and lessons learned about confidence and leadership.
Assumptions about people judging her have made dating challenging for Sophie, but she's trying to unlearn these negative thoughts and open herself up to genuine connection.
Living with strabismus hasn't been a linear journey for Charlotte. This made accepting her condition tricky, but writing an academic paper on her experiences has helped Charlotte to process what she's been through.
Angela acquired facial palsy after surgery. Coming to terms with her new appearance has been hard, but support from friends and Changing Faces has helped her start to accept herself.
Shabana grew up hearing comments and questions about her cleft, but her parents’ unwavering support helped her to become the confident woman she is today.
Ada found it difficult to leave the house due to concerns about people’s reactions to her keloid scars. Now she’s re-building her confidence and has even had her portrait painted.
Joanne grew up thinking marriage wasn’t something meant for her. Now, she’s planning her wedding after meeting someone who accepts and loves her exactly as she is.
Jack has had facial palsy his entire life. The challenges he’s overcome inspired him to raise awareness by running the London Marathon for Changing Faces.
Rachel acquired scarring following the removal of a haemangioma. Bullying impacted her self-esteem but she’s learning to see her difference as a strength.
Parenting a child with a visible difference can be challenging. Megan wanted to understand how best to support her daughter, so attended a Changing Faces webinar, which helped her to positively reframe Nuala’s visible difference.