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.
Cerys has a lymphatic malformation on her back and has autism. Being neurodivergent with a physical difference means she can feel judged in multiple ways, but her differences make Cerys who she is.
As a child, Hugo saw his scar as strength. Then, as the stares became more noticeable, the need to hide it took over. Now he’s focused on overcoming the shame around his scar.
Anna shares her journey of raising her vibrant seven-year-old daughter, Saoirse, who was recently diagnosed with Parry-Romberg syndrome.
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.
Oliver Bromley and others in the visible difference community have experienced discrimination in hospitality venues. With allyship and better education, we can put a stop to it.
For years, Katie hid her scoliosis under heavy clothes, even in hot weather. Enjoying summer with a visible difference was hard, until she decided to put her own comfort first.
Sofia was born with a cleft lip and palate, but it wasn’t something her family spoke to her about. She now wants to tell her story on her own terms, embracing who she is.
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.
While it took Gillian 17 years to discover she has Parry-Romberg Syndrome, she has spent that time learning to love the way she stands out.
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.
Campaigner Kate reflects on her experience of being a speaker at a Changing Faces workshop for parents and carers, and how it’s a powerful step toward building understanding and confidence.