I was born with vitiligo, and as someone who has lived with the condition my whole life, people might think that I have everything figured out. But one thing I’ve learned about life — whether you have vitiligo or some other difference that sets you apart from others — is that acceptance is a process each of us must navigate in our own way.

I hid my spots until about three years ago. Prior to that, I didn't know anyone who had vitiligo, and I didn't have anyone who could help me get through the process of living with the condition. I'm grateful for that time, because now I feel so liberated when I say, “Hey, this is me. Take me as I am, because I love me for who I am.”

The way I’ve dealt with vitiligo may not work for someone else, which is why it’s important for everyone to trust the process rather than try to follow how someone else has handled it. Everyone will arrive at that place of confidence, security, liberation, and freedom in their own time.

Now that I show my spots, I feel like I’m walking in my true purpose. And as my true, authentic self, I feel like I inhabit so much power. Letting go of the worry and concern I used to have about what others thought of me has given me so much confidence that I carry myself differently than I did in the past. Now that I’ve begun to love who I am, I know there's a purpose behind my spots.

Not only have I gained confidence during my self-acceptance journey, but I’ve also been able to inspire others. I became a confidence coach, and I love meeting other people.

When people have questions about my vitiligo, I answer them without hesitation. Educating other people means spreading awareness. The more people know about vitiligo, the more I can show society that those of us with vitiligo are just normal people who have a skin condition.

Every process has a beginning, middle, and end. I’m grateful that during my life with vitiligo, I’ve been able to focus on the end. Any emotions I’ve felt along the way have helped me recognize how rewarding the end of the process can be.

My Perspective articles discuss vitiligo from a specific point of view. My Perspective articles don’t reflect the opinions of MyVitiligoTeam staff, medical experts, partners, advertisers, or sponsors. MyVitiligoTeam content isn’t intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.