Hayley’s story: “I’m still searching for self-acceptance, but I’m getting there”
Hayley has neurofibromatosis, which has made life challenging, but support from Changing Faces has helped her look to the future more positively.
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.
All stories
Charlotte’s story: “My scars are proof of everything I’ve survived”
After acquiring burns scarring on 50% of her body, Charlotte no longer recognised the person she saw in the mirror. But those scars tell a story of survival.
Dahlia’s Story: Championing representation for my daughter with Congenital Melanocytic Naevus
Dahlia’s daughter was born with Congenital Melanocytic Naevus. By writing a children's book, Dahlia is helping to raise awareness and representation for all children living with a visible difference.
Bianca’s story: Finding confidence with keloid scarring
Bianca shares her journey to confidence with keloid scarring, finding support in online communities.
Abi’s story: “I’m learning how to build a life with lymphatic malformation”
Abi was born with Lymphatic Malformation. People’s reactions to her condition made her self-consciousness, but thanks to a strong support network, she’s coming to terms with her condition.
Caroline’s story: “Online dating with a difference can be hard”
Caroline chose to have a mastectomy after discovering she carries a BRCA2 mutation. Online dating has brought people’s ignorance to light, but she doesn't regret her decision.
Holly’s story: “I now look at my ‘sabre strike’ with appreciation”
Being diagnosed with linear scleroderma was physically and mentally challenging for Holly. Working in medicine is her dream, and she hopes to help others like her feel supported.
Sneha’s story: “Performing has taught me that everyone deserves to be seen”
Sneha’s craniofacial dysplasia has impacted her both physically and emotionally. However, she hasn’t let it stop her from pursuing her love of dance, music and teaching.
Eden’s story: Finding love with a visible difference
As a teenager, Eden felt that finding love with a visible difference was impossible. Then she met someone who accepts all of her, realising that attraction is much more than appearance.
Ash’s story: “Empowering others has become my purpose”
Ash was born with CMN. Bullying and harmful myths about her condition caused her pain, but she’s determined to celebrate her difference by supporting others facing challenges too.
Vikki’s story: “Losing my face didn’t erase me, it uncovered me”
Acquiring a facial difference after cancer led to Vikki rebuilding her identity. She realised that her value never came from her appearance, but from her character.
Sarah’s story: “Celebrate diversity and model respect in everything you do”
As a teacher, Sarah is passionate about educating children about visible difference and using her experience of having a birthmark to encourage acceptance.