Hello, my name is Sophie, and I was born with CMN predominantly on my face, with lesions on my body. As a child I wasn’t interested in the research and the knowledge behind my condition, however, as I have become older it has become something I’m very passionate in understanding and creating visibility on.
I have had many different types of treatment on my CMN from a baby until I was 15 years old. I am now 25. I grew up in a small town and was very lucky to be in an environment where people didn’t judge me or leave me feeling excluded. I have a wonderful family who never treated me any differently. My mum has been there through every hospital visit (including playing air hockey very badly!) and first introduced me to Caring Matters Now. My brothers have always had my back if I ever needed them to and love me unconditionally. They taught me to never be ashamed and gave me the confidence to be myself and comfortable in how I look.
It wasn’t until I was a teenager that I became more self-conscious of my CMN. It used to be the first thing I saw in photos or in the mirror, naturally so. Strangers would ask questions, harmless or not, every little interaction used to leave a mark. Of course, for people I knew I was happy to talk about it because it is a big part of me, and a part I’m proud of.
In recent years, with the support of friends and family, and above all my girlfriend, my confidence has grown; not just in my appearance but in speaking out about my visible difference and using my platform as a tool to increase awareness and reach an audience that needs to hear it.
I’ve never let my CMN stop me from doing anything. I attended University, gaining an undergraduate and postgraduate degree, whilst playing rugby for and captaining the University side in the BUCS league. I now play for Saracens in the Women’s Premiership (PWR) and have represented England Red Roses. Playing for my country was an amazing achievement and I’m very proud to have done that.
I am very lucky to have the support of my family, my girlfriend, and a great set of friends throughout my life that have supported me, encouraged me and loved me regardless of CMN.
