Parents always strive to protect their children, and these parents took a special step for their daughter, Vienna Brookshaw. Born to her mother, Celine Casey, in April 2021 in the United Kingdom, Vienna had a birthmark on her forehead, between her eyebrows.
The birthmark, known as congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN), didn’t affect Vienna’s health, but her mother was concerned it might pose emotional challenges as Vienna grew up. CMN is a rare condition where a baby is born with a group of harmless pigment cells that could grow as the child ages.
Worried about potential future challenges, Casey immediately inquired with doctors about removing the birthmark to prevent any emotional distress for Vienna.
Casey expressed, “We enjoy watching her grow on her journey, and we look forward to the day she grows up and can express her own thoughts. We’d love her no matter what, even if we kept the birthmark.”
Casey’s desire to remove the birthmark stemmed from noticing that people would stare at Vienna when she was a baby, leading to differential treatment. This strengthened her determination to pursue the birthmark’s removal.
Despite the NHS declining surgery due to it being deemed cosmetic rather than essential, Casey initiated a fundraising campaign to cover the costs. Generous donations poured in, but more funds were needed due to increased hospital expenses amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Casey sought additional assistance through GoFundMe to cover the remaining costs for Vienna’s surgery. Vienna underwent three surgeries to remove the birthmark, leaving only a small scar on her forehead.
Now at two years old, Vienna is healthy and no longer requires medical care. Her parents remain vigilant about her healing process and celebrate her beauty. Their journey serves as a testament to parental love and determination.
We extend our best wishes to Vienna for a healthy future and encourage sharing her inspiring story with others.
