This baby girl was trolled for her looks — now at 2 years old, she is ‘gorgeous’ after her parents’ made a brave decision.
Parents often go above and beyond to protect their children, and British mother Celine Casey did just that for her daughter, Vienna Brookshaw. Born in April 2021, Vienna had a birthmark on her forehead between her eyebrows known as congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN). While the mark posed no medical risk, Casey worried about how it might affect Vienna emotionally as she grew older.
CMN is a rare condition in which a benign pigmented birthmark grows along with the child. Concerned about future teasing or social challenges, Casey consulted doctors early about removal options. Although she emphasized that she loves her daughter unconditionally, she wanted to ensure Vienna could grow up confident and comfortable.
When strangers stared or treated Vienna differently, Casey became more determined. The NHS classified the surgery as cosmetic and denied coverage, so Casey turned to crowdfunding. She raised $52,000 in just one day, but due to increased costs during COVID-19, the family still needs an additional $27,000. Casey believes children notice differences early, especially once school begins, and hopes to spare Vienna unnecessary emotional pain.
