Nicole Hall, a passionate and devoted mother, is on a mission to highlight her daughter’s exceptional beauty and individuality. Her 13-month-old daughter, Winry, was born with a rare congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN), a unique birthmark that sets her apart from other children. At first, Nicole and her husband were surprised by the appearance of the birthmark. Nicole shared, “When they first handed her to me, I thought it was a bruise, but soon realized it wasn’t. It looked like a mole.”
According to Dr. Harper Price from Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Dr. Heather Etchevers from Marseille Medical Genetics, CMN can appear as light brown to black patches and can vary in size and location on the body.
Rather than dwelling on the initial shock of her daughter’s condition, Nicole used social media as a platform to raise awareness about CMN and share an empowering message: “Being different is your superpower.” Her aim is to educate others who may not be familiar with such birthmarks and provide support and representation for children and parents facing similar challenges. While Winry’s CMN diagnosis could increase her risk of melanoma, Nicole’s primary concern is the potential for bullying as Winry grows up. To safeguard her daughter, Nicole takes extra precautions, such as applying sunscreen and ensuring she wears protective hats, in addition to scheduling regular dermatology appointments as Winry gets older.
What truly makes Winry stand out, however, is her lively and radiant personality. Nicole describes her as an energetic baby who exudes joy, already known for her chatty nature and spirited attitude. Her family anticipates having their hands full with this bubbly and endearing child. Nicole’s TikTok account has gained significant attention, allowing her to connect with others who share similar experiences with CMN. This online community has become a valuable space for support and understanding, reinforcing the importance of embracing uniqueness and celebrating diversity. Nicole believes this platform is vital, saying, “This is an important conversation for parents to have with their children—to show that kids can have differences. It’s also for parents of children with birthmarks or conditions like Winry’s, to see their child represented.”
Nicole and Winry’s journey showcases a mother’s unwavering dedication to her daughter’s health and well-being, while also promoting awareness and celebrating the beauty of diversity.