Sharon is the mother of Jess.

In August of 2004 I attended my third AVRF seminar. If you have Vitiligo yourself and attend the seminar, you will feel a sense of belonging and acceptance.

I know that each year this has been held, it becomes better every time. This year, a new activity was added, which was taking the children miniature golfing. Being a shy person, I usually just stand back and watch things that go on around me. I can tell you that each child felt accepted here and had a smile on their face. To see everyone really having a fun time and not being afraid of what others may think gives you a wonderful feeling.

Once you go to these seminars, you bring a new family into your life. This Vitiligo family is loving, compassionate, and never stops working. My favorite part of the seminars is making new friendships, which will last forever and sharing experiences we have all gone through because of Vitiligo.

Even though this disease once brought me down, I am truly grateful for all of the experiences it has brought me and I am always looking forward to new friendships. We need to embrace diversity everywhere.