Nicole-Amanda

Before I found out about AVRF, I would feel upset wearing clothes that would show my Vitiligo spots. I didn’t want anyone to know what I have. I knew kids would ask me why my skin has white spots when they noticed but I never knew what to really tell them. I was too ashamed.

My mother was the one who first found out about AVRF. I looked over the website with her and read all the stories the teens posted. I was surprised to find out how many more children had Vitiligo. I felt less ashamed when I saw how much less Vitiligo spots I had compared to some of the other teens.  I realized that there was a seminar in Florida coming up and my mother thought it would be a good idea to attend. I was very excited about the seminar and looked forward to meeting more kids who had Vitiligo. I wanted to know how they dealt with it everyday.

When I arrived there, I met Stella along with other kids who were at the seminar. I learned that every time someone asks them why their skin has white spots, they were able to describe it to them so they can learn about the disease. Stella also taught me never to be ashamed of myself and one should always stand up for oneself too.

Now when I am at school, I always tell my new friends what Vitiligo is. This way my friends know what I have in case they get curious. Feeling stronger and more confident led me to conduct an Independent Study Project on Vitiligo.  The study project is required by all students in order to graduate from my school. I did mine on Vitiligo in order to help me find out even more about this rare skin disease.

My mom, Stella and AVRF have taught me to be more true to myself. I hope to have this confidence throughout my life and as I continue to embark onto high school later this year.

I will always thank Stella for what she has done for me, giving me great support, and I hope that other children needing help will look for Stella and AVRF.

By Nicole-Amanda