International Vascular Birthmarks Awareness Day: 3 things you do not know about birthmarks
Amanda Mlambo, who was born with birthmarks, shares some interesting facts about the skin markings and how she has learnt to accept them as part of her uniqueness.
TODAY, May 15, the world observes International Vascular Birthmarks Awareness Day, and May is also International Vascular Birthmarks Awareness Month.
This special day shines a spotlight on something unique to many, and it is not just any day; it is a time when stories and experiences come to life, all thanks to the marks that make people unique. Any mark that is present on the skin at birth, or that develops soon afterwards, is called a birthmark.
Also read: Should you worry about your child’s birthmark?
As we observe this day, we speak to Amanda Vanessa Mlambo (23), a KwaDadabeka resident who has birthmarks on her right thigh. Amanda also shares things that people may not know about birthmarks.
She admits that, at an early age, she was afraid to show her birthmarks in public due to a lack of knowledge. “I used to wear long trousers and skirts from seven years old till 15 years old because I thought there was something wrong with me. When I began to embrace what makes me different, I started to see my birthmarks as beautiful,” Amanda says.
When asked about what this day means to her, Amanda describes it as more than a date, saying that it is a beacon of hope and a call to action for acceptance and knowledge. She says this day aims to educate and inform people about vascular birthmarks. “These are not just birthmarks; they are part of my identity. By spreading awareness, the day helps reduce misunderstandings and fears. It encourages support and acceptance, making the world a kinder place for those with birthmarks,” says Amanda.
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She does not believe the myths that birthmarks are a sign of greed and royal blood. She says, “I am not sure about greed and royal blood, but I do believe that a birthmark indicates good luck. I feel like I am lucky and special because I had never seen someone with the same birthmark as mine.” She calls on the public to gain more knowledge about birthmarks and show love to people with birthmarks.
Here are the three things that you may not know about birthmarks as shared by Amanda:
- Birthmarks are harmless.
- Some birthmarks go away on their own as you grow.
- Occasionally, a birthmark may be a sign of other health issues or diseases.
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