For years, I was told it was “just a birthmark.” It was not until I was 17 that I was officially diagnosed with CMN. Learning about CMN and connecting with Nevus Outreach helped me understand that I was not alone and that there was a community of people who shared experiences like mine. Attending the 2026 Amplify Conference was life-changing and inspired me to begin raising awareness myself. 

Growing up without awareness or understanding made me feel like being different was simply bad luck. Today, I see my CMN differently. Being educated about what makes me unique has given me confidence and empowered me to use my voice. Raising awareness is important to me because everyone deserves to feel included, seen, and understood. I want children, teens, and adults living with CMN to know they are not alone and to have the awareness and community I never had growing up. 

All of us deserve to be seen, heard, and accepted for exactly who we are.