Laura Kelly, 28, born with congenital melanocytic naevus (CMN) covering 98% of her body, has shared her journey of learning to embrace her appearance. Doctors had initially feared she might not live beyond the age of eight.
Growing up, Ms Kelly felt self-conscious about how strangers might react to her condition. During her teenage years, she often used heavy makeup and carefully planned outfits to cover her skin.
Ms Kelly stated that embracing her appearance and raising awareness of CMN has increased her confidence. She hopes that by sharing her story, she can assist others who have a visible difference.
CMN is a type of birthmark or mole typically present at birth, caused by a genetic change in a single cell during pregnancy. It is not inherited from parents. In the UK, an estimated 7,000 babies are born with some form of CMN annually.