Every single one of us is born uniquely special, with traits and features that make us irrefutably beautiful in our own way. One of the most remarkable aspects of being human is the vast diversity that exists among us. As time goes on, society has become better at recognizing, accepting, and celebrating these differences.
Nicole Lucas Hall, a devoted mother, is raising two wonderful children, her son Asher and daughter Winry. However, her journey as a parent has taken on a broader mission: to prove that imperfections make us perfect. Nicole is determined to show the world that her baby girl, who was born with a rare birthmark, is beautiful just the way she is.
Winry’s Rare Birthmark
Winry Hall was born in February 2021 with a condition known as congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN), a rare birthmark that occurs in less than 1% of newborns. This unique mark covers nearly a quarter of her face, making her appearance distinctive from other children her age. Despite the initial surprise, Nicole and her family have embraced Winry’s uniqueness and are working to raise awareness about CMN.
“I had a pretty normal pregnancy,” Nicole recalls. “There were no signs or indications that my daughter would be born with a skin condition. When the nurses handed her to me, I was taken aback but instantly filled with love.”
Initial Reactions and Understanding CMN
Nicole remembers the moment she first noticed the mark on her daughter’s face. Initially, she thought it was a bruise from delivery. “When I looked at her more closely, I realized it wasn’t a bruise. It resembled a mole, but I had never seen anything like it before,” she shares.
While the medical staff reassured Nicole that all of Winry’s vital signs were healthy, she couldn’t help but feel a wave of concern. “Some of the excitement of labor had passed, and worry was the main emotion I felt,” Nicole writes on her blog. “I held her tight and loved her, but I couldn’t help wondering if this mark could be harmful.”
According to the National Organization for Rare Diseases, CMN can appear as light brown or black patches on any part of the body, varying greatly in size. While typically benign, larger birthmarks like Winry’s can carry a slightly increased risk of developing melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
Promoting Awareness and Acceptance
Rather than hiding Winry’s birthmark, Nicole has made it her mission to celebrate her daughter’s uniqueness. By sharing their story, she hopes to encourage other families to embrace differences and educate the public about conditions like CMN.
“For many people, this is the first time they’re seeing a birthmark like Winry’s, and that’s part of why I enjoy sharing her story,” Nicole explains. “It’s a great way to start conversations with children about accepting differences. For parents who have kids with birthmarks or similar conditions, I want them to see representation and know they’re not alone.”
Nicole and her husband are also vigilant about protecting Winry’s health. They take precautions such as applying sunscreen diligently and ensuring she wears hats when outdoors. Regular dermatology appointments are a part of their routine to monitor her skin.
While Nicole worries about the potential for bullying as Winry grows older, her primary focus remains on her daughter’s health and happiness. “We want her to grow up confident and proud of who she is,” Nicole says.
A Joyful, Spirited Child
Despite the challenges her parents anticipate, Winry is a bundle of joy and energy. At just 13 months old, she radiates happiness and is full of personality. “She’s the happiest baby I’ve ever seen,” Nicole shares. “She’s always laughing, shrieking, and showing her sassy side.”
Winry’s zest for life has inspired countless people who have come across her story. Nicole hopes that by continuing to share their journey, they can help break down societal biases and encourage others to embrace diversity.
Changing the Narrative Around Differences
Nicole’s efforts to highlight her daughter’s beauty and uniqueness serve as a powerful reminder that differences should be celebrated, not ridiculed. By sharing Winry’s story, she’s fostering a message of acceptance and kindness that resonates deeply with people worldwide.
“I want others to see that being different isn’t something to be ashamed of—it’s something to be proud of,” Nicole says. “Our differences make us who we are, and that’s what makes the world such a beautiful place.”
Spreading Love and Positivity
Winry’s story has touched hearts everywhere, inspiring others to embrace what makes them unique. Nicole and her family’s openness about their journey is a testament to the power of love and acceptance.
If you agree that all children are beautiful and worthy of love, share this story to spread positivity and support for families like Nicole’s. Together, we can create a more accepting and inclusive world.
