Jean Lambert had a brief moment to put her premature daughter on the һoѕріtаɩ bed before medical professionals took her away.With the placenta left, the new mother had to wait for four or five agonizing hours before she could finally see baby Chloe аɡаіп.
And soon after she did, she was faced with the sight of her precious baby being hooked up to a machine in the intensive care unit.So when she and her husband Michael discovered a small ‘bruise’ on the right side of the child’s forehead, it was the saddest of them all.
This image shows how Chloe’s birthmark changed in color and size after she started treatment
“We didn’t think much of it,” Jean told Mirror Online.But over the next few weeks, as Chloe’s condition improved, the magic rapidly grew “like a strawberry” and took on a vibrant red color.When it goes away, it’s actually a birthmark.
Jean Lambert and her husband Michael had a distressing experience when their premature baby daughter, Chloe, was born with a birthmark on her forehead. Initially dismissed as a bruise, the birthmark began to rapidly grow in size and vivid red color, causing concern for Chloe’s well-being.
As Chloe’s birthmark continued to enlarge, it started to affect her eye and became ulcerated, causing discomfort and attracting unwanted attention from strangers. Jean and Michael sought medical advice, but were told that there were no available treatment options and that the birthmark would likely fade on its own over time.
However, their fortunes changed when a passing doctor noticed Chloe’s condition and informed them about a new treatment being trialed at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). The family wasted no time and Chloe was accepted into the trial. She began a year-long treatment with propranolol, a medication known to reduce blood flow and soften birthmarks.
Chloe’s birthmark grew quickly “like a strawberry” and turned bright red before becoming sores.
The treatment proved successful, gradually shrinking Chloe’s birthmark and improving her overall condition. Annual checkups followed, and Chloe eventually underwent three cosmetic surgeries to further refine the appearance of her birthmark, resulting in a small scar that resembles an accidental injury. Though Chloe once felt self-conscious about her birthmark and even requested a fringe hairstyle to conceal it, she has now embraced it as a unique part of her identity.
Throughout their journey, Jean and Michael received invaluable support from the Birthmark Support Group, an organization founded by parents of children with vascular birthmarks. The group provided them with a community of understanding and advice, helping them navigate the challenges associated with Chloe’s birthmark.
Grateful for the support they received, Jean decided to give back by participating in the London Marathon as a charity runner for the Birthmark Support Group. With determination and a desire to raise funds and awareness, Jean hopes to contribute to the organization’s mission of supporting other families facing similar challenges.
Chloe is pictured at 10 days old – by which time the birthmark is already starting to show
Chloe, now a happy and confident nine-year-old, proudly shares her birthmark story and displays her small scar as a symbol of her journey. Her transformation serves as a reminder of the power of medical advancements, the importance of support networks, and the resilience of individuals in overcoming adversity.
In conclusion, Chloe’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of medical advancements and support networks. From the moment her birthmark was discovered, Jean and Michael faced uncertainty and concern for their daughter’s well-being. However, through their determination and the intervention of medical professionals at Great Ormond Street Hospital, Chloe’s life took a positive turn.
The treatment trial with propranolol not only reduced the size and color of Chloe’s birthmark but also alleviated the physical discomfort she experienced. The cosmetic surgeries further enhanced her appearance, leaving behind only a small scar as a reminder of her incredible journey. Chloe’s self-confidence has blossomed, and she proudly embraces her birthmark as a unique part of her identity.
The support and guidance provided by the Birthmark Support Group played a significant role in Jean and Michael’s ability to navigate the challenges they faced. Through this organization, they found a community of understanding parents and resources that helped them through the difficult times. Jean’s commitment to giving back through her participation in the London Marathon reflects the gratitude and appreciation she feels for the support she received.
Chloe’s story serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges. It highlights the importance of seeking medical expertise, advocating for necessary treatments, and finding support networks to provide guidance and understanding. With advancements in medical research and the support of organizations like the Birthmark Support Group, children like Chloe have the opportunity to thrive and embrace their unique qualities.
Chloe, who has undergone a year of propranolol treatment, is pictured on the morning of her first birth
As Chloe continues to grow and thrive, her story will undoubtedly inspire others facing similar journeys. Her resilience, along with the unwavering support of her family and the medical community, has allowed her to overcome obstacles and embrace her individuality. Chloe’s future is filled with endless possibilities, and her story stands as a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and the human spirit.
Chloe’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that appearances should never define a person’s worth or potential. Her birthmark, once a source of concern and discomfort, has now become a symbol of her strength and resilience. Through her own acceptance and the support of her family and the Birthmark Support Group, Chloe has learned to embrace her unique features and share her story with pride.
Not only has Chloe’s physical transformation been remarkable, but her emotional growth has been equally inspiring. She has become a source of inspiration for others, demonstrating that beauty comes in all forms and that self-acceptance is a powerful tool for empowerment. Chloe’s confidence and positive outlook on life radiate from within, touching the hearts of those around her.
The advancements in medical treatments for birthmarks, such as the trial that Chloe participated in, offer hope to countless other individuals and families facing similar challenges. The story of Chloe’s remarkable journey encourages further research and development in this field, as well as greater awareness and support for those affected by vascular birthmarks.
arrived today and Chloe (pictured with her mother Jean last summer) is a happy and healthy nine-year-old
As Chloe continues to thrive and make a positive impact on those around her, her parents, Jean and Michael, remain grateful for the medical professionals and support networks that made her transformation possible. They are determined to raise awareness and support for the Birthmark Support Group, ensuring that other families receive the same invaluable assistance they received during their own challenging times.
Chloe’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of medical advancements, and the importance of support and understanding. Through her journey, she has proven that no challenge is insurmountable when faced with love, resilience, and a community of support. Chloe’s future is filled with endless possibilities, and her story will continue to inspire and uplift those who hear it.
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