If we embrace and value individuals who exhibit certain differences, the world could become an exceptional environment.
Upon the arrival of baby Winry, her parents observed a mark on her face, initially mistaking it for a bruise. However, medical professionals explained that she had congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN), an extraordinarily uncommon birthmark.
“When they placed her in my arms for the first time, I initially mistook it for a bruise. However, it became evident to both my husband and me that it wasn’t a bruise. And true to its name, it bore a striking resemblance to a mole,” shared Nicole Hall with Good Morning America.
“I was fortunate to experience a fairly typical pregnancy! I dealt with morning sickness from weeks 8 to 14, but once that subsided, I felt fantastic until fatigue set in during the final month,” she noted on her blog. She added that nobody could have anticipated that their little one would have such a birthmark on her face.
“After the initial excitement of labor subsided, I would describe my predominant emotion as worry. While I recognized that it bore a resemblance to a mole, I had never encountered anything quite like it before. My concern stemmed from the possibility of it being harmful to her. Despite none of the nurses mentioning anything about it at that point, I found myself unsure of what questions to ask. So, I simply held her close and showered her with affection.”
As stated in a report by Dr. Harper Price from Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Dr. Heather Etchevers from Marseille Medical Genetics, Winry’s condition leads to the development of light brown to black patches, which can manifest in various forms on different parts of the body.
Possessing this birthmark entails the possibility of a potential melanoma, a form of skin cancer, developing. While the risk remains relatively minimal, Nicole takes consistent measures to safeguard Winry’s well-being. Whenever they venture outdoors, she ensures Winry wears a hat and applies sunscreen to her delicate face, taking every necessary precaution.
“Her well-being and joy hold utmost importance to us. We’re vigilant about sunscreen use and make sure she’s protected with hats and similar measures. Regular dermatology appointments will likely become a significant part of her upbringing,” Nicole explains.
Winry’s parents understand that their daughter might attract attention as she matures and even in her later years, prompting them to actively contribute to increasing awareness about CMN.
“Since many people encounter a birthmark like hers for the first time, I find fulfillment in spreading awareness,” Nicole explains. “This serves as a valuable dialogue for parents and their children, highlighting that kids can have distinctions. It also provides representation for parents whose children share Winry’s appearance or possess any type of birthmark.”
Winry is a content and robust young girl, and her parents aspire to witness her embrace her birthmark as an integral part of herself and treasure her uniqueness.
“She exudes happiness. Her laughter and giggles are almost constant. She’s genuinely the most cheerful baby I’ve come across,” the mother expressed. “She’s already quite the conversationalist. While her vocabulary might be limited, she conveys her thoughts candidly and is beginning to display a touch of spirited attitude. It seems we’re in for quite an eventful journey.”
By means of her TikTok videos showcasing Winry, who is now 13 months old, Nicole is reaching a wide audience and promoting awareness. They have received communications from fellow parents whose children share CMN, including a family from Brazil whose son possesses an almost identical birthmark to Winry’s.
At the very least, they recognize they have companionship.
Kindly spread this article among your family and friends on Facebook.