Embracing Differences: The Story of Baby Winry’s Birthmark

The world becomes a much better place when we accept and cherish those who are different in one way or another.

When baby Winry was born, her parents immediately noticed a patch on her face. Initially, they thought it was a bruise, but doctors informed them that their little one had congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN), a rare birthmark.

“When they first handed her to me, I thought it was a bruise. It was then quickly apparent to my husband and I that it was not a bruise. And like the name, I thought it looked a lot like a mole,” said Winry’s mom, Nicole Hall, in an interview with Good Morning America.

Nicole went on to share on her blog, “I was lucky to have a pretty average pregnancy! I had morning sickness from about weeks 8-14, but once that let up, I felt great until the tiredness kicked in during the last month. No one could have predicted that Winry would have such a unique birthmark.”

As a first-time mom, Nicole felt a mix of emotions. “Some of the excitement of labor had passed, and I would say worry was the main emotion I felt. I recognized it resembled a mole, but I had never seen anything like it. I was worried it might be harmful to her. None of the nurses had said anything about it at this point, but I wasn’t sure what to ask, so I just held her tight and loved on her.”

According to a report by the National Organization for Rare Diseases, Winry’s condition causes patches that range from light brown to black, appearing in various shapes and sizes on different parts of the body. Though the condition is rare, CMN carries a small risk of developing melanoma, a type of skin cancer. However, Nicole remains vigilant in protecting Winry from the sun, always ensuring she wears a hat and sunscreen on her face.

“Her health and happiness are our top priority,” Nicole says. “We have to monitor her with sunscreen. I’m careful with hats and that sort of thing. Our regular dermatology appointments will likely become our best friend as she grows up.”

Nicole and her husband are aware that their daughter will likely receive stares as she grows older. But they are committed to raising awareness about CMN. “For a lot of people, this is the first time seeing a birthmark like hers, and that’s part of why I enjoy sharing,” Nicole explains. “It’s a good conversation for parents with their children to learn about differences, or for parents who have a child with a birthmark like Winry’s to see their child represented.”

Winry is a joyful and healthy girl, and her parents hope that as she becomes more aware of her birthmark, she will embrace it as part of who she is. “She just radiates joy. She’s almost always laughing or shrieking. She is the happiest baby I’ve ever seen,” Nicole shares. “She’s already a big talker. We haven’t got many words out yet, but she tells you exactly what she wants. I think we’re going to have a lot on our hands!”

Through TikTok videos featuring Winry, Nicole has been able to spread awareness and connect with other families. They’ve already been contacted by other parents of children with CMN, including a family from Brazil whose son has a birthmark almost identical to Winry’s.

At least they know they’re not alone.

Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.