Lauren’s story: “I don’t need to cover up”
Lauren has faced many challenges connected to her birthmark, but she’s proud of her Port Wine Stain and the strength she’s developed over the years.
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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Alison’s story: “I want to be part of the positive change”
Alison has struggled with her self-confidence all her life, but now she wants to step up and support others by telling her story.
Lucy’s story: “I created the representation I needed”
Lola was born with a strawberry birthmark. Here, her mum Lucy talks about the importance of representation and the birthmark community.
Charlotte and Arlo’s story: “Arlo is beautiful, just the way he is”
Arlo was born with two types of birthmarks. His mum, Charlotte, worries about how people might react, but her focus is ensuring that Arlo loves himself as he is.
Eden’s story: “I learned to value my uniqueness”
Eden is a filmmaker with the condition CMTC. Her latest work, ‘Paper Tiger’, explores the experiences of people who look different and encourages acceptance.
Placing respect at the heart of conversations around visible difference
This Anti-Bullying Week, Hannah explains how we can choose respect when talking to people with visible differences.
Kate’s story: “I wouldn’t change that I was born with a birthmark”
Kate has experienced inappropriate comments and stares because of her visible difference. She hopes education will ensure others don’t go through this in the future.
But what if I don’t look different enough?
Katie talks about why it’s taken her so long to accept her birthmark, and how this caused her feelings of “imposter syndrome” as a campaigner.
Molly’s story: “I’ve become a lot more confident in myself”
Insensitive comments made Molly feel self-conscious about her birthmark, but she’s learning to embrace her difference and its beauty.
Darcey’s story: “Surround yourself with positive influences”
Darcey has experienced cruel reactions because of her birthmark. Now she’s a finalist in a pageant and hopes to show everyone that being different is beautiful.
Evie’s story: “I love that I am unique”
Evie has experienced staring and unwanted comments because of her birthmark, but she’s come to embrace her difference, and she hopes others can do the same.
Sophie’s story: “Making difference normal is vital”
Sophie hopes that in the future people won’t feel they have to change their appearance to fit in, like she did.