Parents often do whatever it takes to protect their children, and Celine Casey did just that for her daughter, Vienna Brookshaw, born in April 2021 in the UK. Vienna had a rare birthmark, called congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN), on her forehead. Although the birthmark was harmless, Casey worried it might emotionally impact her daughter as she grew older. When strangers began treating Vienna differently, Casey became determined to have it removed.
The NHS denied surgery, viewing it as cosmetic, so Casey turned to fundraising. In 24 hours, $52,000 was raised, but due to COVID-19’s impact on hospital costs, they still needed $27,000 more. Through another GoFundMe campaign, they covered the expenses.
By age two, Vienna’s birthmark was removed after three surgeries, leaving only a small scar. Casey often shares updates about her daughter’s healing, celebrating her beauty and health. Now, Vienna is a healthy two-year-old, no longer needing any medical care. Her parents remain grateful and hopeful for her bright future!