I’m Darcey, and I have a birthmark on my leg. As a child, my visible difference often drew a lot of attention and questions from other children at school. Their curiosity and lack of filters meant I frequently heard remarks like, “Did you spill Ribena on your leg?” or “Were you bitten by a shark?” These comments, though innocent, impacted my school experience and interactions with peers.
I recall a particular incident from my childhood when a new friend noticed my birthmark and exclaimed, “Ew! What’s that?” I explained it was my birthmark and, wanting to make light of the situation, told her it was magic – when I touched it, it would disappear for a second. I demonstrated this, and she hesitantly asked if she could try. I agreed, but when she touched my birthmark, she recoiled, shouted “Ew!” and shuddered. This incident has stayed with me ever since.
I wish I could tell the little girl who was ridiculed and who camouflaged her birthmark every day that true beauty comes from within.
Throughout my life I’ve experienced staring and unwanted comments, especially in the summer. Often, I would forget about my birthmark until a stranger’s eyes fixated on my legs, making me realize they were staring at it and causing me to feel self-conscious.
In relationships, I learned to preemptively bring up my birthmark at the start of dates. I wanted to address it first to avoid uncomfortable questions or reactions later on. This approach allowed me to control the narrative and set the tone, but it also added an extra layer of preparation and anxiety to the dating process.
Performing is what I love to do, but my awareness of how people viewed me meant I would camouflage my birthmark, prioritising the audience’s comfort over my own. This constant effort to conceal my difference made me feel that my natural appearance needed to be hidden.
Darcey over the years
Now I want to completely embrace who I am. Visible differences make you unique and special. Everyone’s beauty lies in their individuality, and it would be very boring if we all looked the same.
I decided to enter the Miss Liverpool/Miss Cheshire competition after receiving encouragement from loved ones. Taking a leap of faith, I submitted my application and was fortunate to be selected as one of the finalists. This experience has reinforced my mindset that nothing should hold me back.
Reflecting on my journey, I wish I could tell the little girl who was ridiculed and who camouflaged her birthmark every day that true beauty comes from within. Miss GB Liverpool/Cheshire, in selecting me, has given me a valuable platform to share my story and raise awareness about visible differences. It is an opportunity to inspire others and promote a message of self-acceptance and confidence.
My goal is to empower others with visible differences by demonstrating that being different does not diminish our beauty. By being part of such a prestigious pageant, I aim to challenge conventional beauty standards and promote acceptance of visible differences, especially within the beauty industry.
Surround yourself with positive influences and seek out role models who have embraced their differences.
A visible difference is part of who you are, and it should be celebrated rather than concealed. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to inspire others to embrace their unique features and feel confident in their own skin. Ultimately, I aspire to create a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their appearance, feels valued and beautiful.
Education is key to dispelling misconceptions and fostering empathy. Increased visibility of people with visible differences in the public eye, like Katie Piper, can significantly contribute to this awareness.
By representing more individuals with visible differences in media, entertainment, and other public platforms, we can normalize these differences and promote acceptance. This visibility can also provide role models, showing those with visible differences that they too can lead successful and fulfilling lives. Ultimately, a more informed and accepting society would create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected for who they are.
Remember, you are not alone. Surround yourself with positive influences and seek out role models who have embraced their differences. Their stories can inspire and motivate you to see your own beauty and strength.
Practice self-compassion and remember that your worth is defined by who you are, not by your appearance. Be patient with yourself and know that self-acceptance and confidence are within reach.
