Vitiligo Society welcomes young ambassadors
It can be difficult for you, as a parent or carer, to talk to your child about vitiligo. This may be because you have your own feelings about the condition, or because you were not aware of vitiligo and it feels so full of unknowns for you.
As a parent, you will naturally want to get the best treatment for your child and try every medical option open. However, you need to be aware that your efforts to find a treatment may be misunderstood by your child. It is possible that they may think that this means you are ashamed of their condition and this can cause further difficulties if treatments prove not to be as effective as you had both hoped.
Whether you are treating your child’s vitiligo or not, we believe in the power of children seeing peers with vitiligo being able to thrive and embrace their unique appearance. Our Society is really fortunate to now introduce a team of incredible young ambassadors who are unafraid to show their spots, speak out about their vitiligo, and share words of encouragment for other kids to feel proud to do the same!
Meet Nikayah, she’s 9 years old and very happy with her unique skin…
“‘You are beautiful!’ Is what most people say to me when they see my light patches. My name is Nikayah and I am 9yrs old. My mum noticed my first light patch when I was 2 yrs old. She didn’t think much of it until more appeared 2yrs later. Some of my light patches are in my hair which makes my hair turn grey! How cool is that!
My light patches are a constant reminder that we are all beautiful and unique. By talking about Vitiligo we can spread awareness and promote a positive self image for us all. I am so happy in the skin that I am in… Even though some have disappeared or become smaller, I want them all of my light patches to come back. I never want my light patches to go!”
Follow Nikayah’s journey on Instagram: @his_workofart
Meet Charlie, he’s 9 years old and enjoys drawing, swimming and football…
“I was about 4 years old when I noticed a small white patch on my chin. Then it spread and a new spot appeared on my neck. At the beginning, I wanted it to go away. I didn’t think it suited me and I just wanted my normal skin back.
Now I’ve had vitiligo for a few years, I think it makes me feel special. It is part of who I am and it makes feel important. I think it’s important to teach others about vitiligo so that people don’t make fun of them and so people don’t feel embarrassed about having vitiligo. I feel really happy and positive about my skin now. Don’t be afraid to show your patches. People might have questions about your patches and you can explain what it is and be proud!”
Meet Darnay, he is 10 years old and enjoys tennis, gaming and looking after his little sister…
“I developed vitiligo at the age of 7 and I’ve never been ashamed of my patches.
I think that my patches are really cool and resemble a superhero mask. People stare all the time, but it doesn’t bother me at all and it just gives me extra strength.
I say vitiligo shouldn’t change the way you are, it should give you more confidence. I think my vitiligo makes me unique.
Wear your parches with pride. Look in the mirror everyday and tell yourself you are beautiful. Hold your head up high. If people stare, let them stare. They are just fascinated with your uniqueness.”
Follow Darney’s journey on Instagram: @darns2012
Meet Lizzy, she’s 7 years old and was diagnosed wih vitiligo when she was 5…
“I would tell kids who get diagnosed with vitiligo not to be scared or worried. I told my friends that I have vitiligo and explained what it was just in case the saw one of my spots and worried about me.
I told them that vitiligo is on contagious and doesn’t hurt me at all.
I love the kids I’ve met through the Vitiligo Society. Vitiligo has helped me make new friends all over the world!”
If you are a parent with any questions or concerns about your child’s vitiligo then please email our team parentsupport@vitiligosociety.org.uk
Please support our work! You've enjoyed 1 article this month and we hope you have found it useful. Our work is entirely funded by memberships and donations, so please consider joining our charity today and supporting our work.
Already a member? Log in
