Lis’ story: “Regaining my confidence following skin grafts”
Lis became isolated and struggled with her new appearance after having skin grafts on her eyelids. Changing Faces’ Skin Camouflage Service has helped her to rebuild that lost confidence.
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
John’s story: “Living to the full with a Cavernous Haemangioma Lymphangioma”
John has a Cavernous Haemangioma Lymphangioma. While it has impacted him emotionally and physically, he makes sure it doesn’t stop him enjoying life.
Carla’s story: “Coming to terms with the hyperpigmentation on my face”
After developing hyperpigmentation on her face, Carla lost confidence. Changing Faces’ Skin Camouflage Service has helped her to regain it.
Supporting My Child with Goldenhar Syndrome: Oscar’s Positive Start to School.
Kaitlyn shares Oscar’s journey of starting school with Goldenhar syndrome, highlighting the challenges and successes along the way. From navigating visible differences to building an inclusive learning environment, Oscar’s story offers hope to any parent raising a child with Goldenhar Syndrome.
The challenge of selfie culture when you have a visible difference
Campaigner Ellie talks about the difficulties that come from selfie culture when you have a visible difference, from feeling you need to hide your true self to being censored.
Gemma’s story: “I don’t let my ptosis hold me back”
Gemma has ptosis due to Noonan syndrome. She’s battled with her self-esteem, but this hasn't stopped her from pursuing a career teaching others to use their voice confidently.
Isla’s Journey With FOP and the Fight for True Inclusion in Schools
Nicky shares the challenges and triumphs of her daughter Isla’s school experience, highlighting the urgent need for true inclusion, awareness, and understanding of disability in schools.
Teaching secondary school students about visible differences
Joti has been a teacher for over 20 years. She talks about how teaching secondary school students about visible differences is vital to improving acceptance.
How primary schools can support children with visible differences
Kate is a primary school teacher who also has a visible difference. She provides her tips on how primary schools can support children with visible differences.
Jo’s story: “Living with a vascular anomaly hasn’t been easy”
Jo grew up with a birthmark on her lip. At the age of 18, she developed a vascular anomaly on her cheek. It’s been challenging to accept her differences, but she hopes that sharing her story will make others feel less alone.
“Rewriting My Reflection: Living Authentically with a Port Wine Stain Birthmark” – Amanda’s story.
Amanda shares her powerful journey of growing up with a port wine stain birthmark, facing stigma, and finding self-worth and confidence.
Beth’s story: “If I’d been told more about my facial palsy, I’d have felt less alien”
After developing facial palsy as a child, Beth found herself isolated from her peers. She wishes she’d had better support and now hopes to raise awareness to spread understanding.