Lizzy’s story: “Focus on what is important to you in life”
Bullying made Lizzy lose her self-confidence, but through challenging herself, she now sees her cleft as a source of strength.
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
Dean’s story: “I finally felt heard.”
Dean shares his journey with alopecia areata, and why he's trying to break down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and alopecia.
Kimberley’s story: “Charlie feels confident about secondary school.”
When Kimberley’s son, Charlie, didn’t get into his choice of secondary school, it was an upsetting time. Today, Kimberley shares how they moved forwards.
Ellie’s story: “Write your own narrative”
Ellie has faced stares and stigmatic comments due to scars caused by self-harm, but she hasn’t let this stop her from achieving great things.
Hannah’s story: “Teach children acceptance”
Hannah experienced bullying throughout school. She wants better education around visible differences so other children don’t have to go through the same.
“The negatives don’t even begin to outweigh the positives” – Emily’s story.
Emily was nervous about starting university with a visible difference. Today, she shares how her confidence started to skyrocket by the end of her first year.
Joanne’s story: “Nothing is going to stop me from achieving my goals”
Hurtful comments made Joanne struggle to accept herself, but after finding her talent and a strong support network, she’s learnt to love herself as she is.
Sophie’s story: “Be a listening ear”
It’s natural to want to comfort someone who is struggling with their visible difference, but sometimes a well-meaning word can be invalidating. Sophie talks about how listening can be the best way to show support.
Celine’s story: “I don’t want others to feel as alone as we did.”
Celine’s daughter, Vienna, was born with a rare birthmark known as a CMN. Today, Celine shares her experiences.
Jo’s story: “Accepting myself made the stares matter less”
Jo acquired a limb difference following a road crash. Overcoming the trauma has been a hard process, but she’s learnt to accept her leg with the help of those she loves.
Gary’s story: “Live life now, not tomorrow”
Gary acquired a visible difference after a cancer diagnosis. No longer recognising the man in the mirror was tough, but now he’s using his experience to educate others.
Mikaela’s story: “We made something, together.”
Mikaela shares her experiences of being a part of the Stratford Community Chorus, for the Royal Shakespeare Company's production of Julius Caesar.