When I was younger, I didn’t pay much attention to being different. As I got closer to my teenage years, though, I became more aware of how I looked, and for a few years, I naturally let that difference affect how I saw myself. In high school, I made the decision to stop letting my appearance define me. Instead, I embraced what made me different and began using my story to help others embrace the things that make them unique, too. 

Raising awareness for CMN is important to me because I know what it feels like to feel alone, and I’ve watched my parents experience that same feeling. I want others affected by CMN to know that they are not alone. Awareness brings people together and creates a community rooted in hope, understanding, and education. 

Awareness is education. It shines a light on research, provides comfort and confidence to individuals and families who may not know where to turn, and reminds us that there is a community waiting to support them.