When Vienna Brookshaw was born with a rare congenital melanocytic nevus, a type of mole covering half of her forehead, her parents Daniel and Celine were faced with uncertainty and concern. Despite the initial refusal of the National Health Service to perform surgery, citing that their daughter wouldn’t face bullying until secondary school, the couple remained determined to provide Vienna with the best possible future.
The sizable black growth on Vienna’s forehead presented both cosmetic and potential health concerns, including an increased risk of cancer as she grew older. Daniel and Celine were worried that their daughter’s mental health could be affected by the birthmark, especially when she started nursery school. They envisioned a future where Vienna could attend school without feeling self-conscious about her appearance.
Driven by parental love and concern, Daniel and Celine launched a GoFundMe page to raise funds for private treatment at the Portland Hospital in London. Their determination struck a chord with the online community, and donations poured in from compassionate individuals who empathized with the parents’ struggle. In just three days, the campaign surpassed expectations, reaching £14,922.
The funds raised allowed Vienna to undergo private surgery, removing the birthmark that had sparked concerns about potential bullying and psychological effects. The parents’ unwavering dedication to their daughter’s well-being was evident as they sought the best possible future for Vienna, overcoming initial setbacks and bureaucratic obstacles.
Today, Vienna is a healthy two-year-old, and her birthmark has completely disappeared due to the surgery. Her mother, Celine, often tells her how “gorgeous” she is. The family’s story serves as a testament to the power of parental love, community support, and determination in overcoming challenges.
