In Korean mythology, a nevus is described as a bruise left by Samshin Halmi, a spirit associated with childbirth who gently encourages a newborn into the world with a light slap. This story resonates with our family because Bailey made her unexpected entrance into our lives in a similarly abrupt way.

My wife and I made it to the hospital just in time for Bailey's birth. While we were filled with joy, that moment was quickly followed by surprise and uncertainty when we noticed something different about her skin. We waited for the doctor to assess her and had no idea what we were facing.

We are grateful for the doctor who cared for Bailey that day. Although she did not have all the answers about Congenital Melanocytic Nevus, or CMN, she gave us a place to begin as we learned about our daughter's condition.

Our search for information led us to Nevus Outreach, which became a source of hope and support during a very uncertain time. Through the organization, we found information, shared experiences, and a community of families who understood what we were going through. The connections we made have grown into lifelong friendships and a community we think of as our brothers and sisters in arms.

Today, Bailey is a thriving and vibrant part of our family. We cannot imagine her as anyone other than who she is. Her nevus is part of her story and part of what makes her uniquely Bailey.

Raising CMN awareness is important to our family because when Bailey was born, we felt overwhelmed, unprepared, and uninformed. We never want another parent to feel as alone or uncertain as we did. Every family deserves access to accurate information, resources, support, and a community that understands.

Representation matters. When we share our stories, we can break down cultural barriers and stigma surrounding differences and create greater understanding. Most importantly, we want Bailey to grow up feeling seen, understood, and accepted. We want her to know that her uniqueness is not something to hide or be ashamed of, but something beautiful and meaningful.

Through greater awareness and representation, we hope to create a world where Bailey and others with CMN are celebrated for exactly who they are, rather than defined by a diagnosis or viewed through the lens of stigma.