Ryan
by Cynthia May

Yes, Ryan is real. He’s my first-born, so he’s always been special. Now, more than ever.

Ryan just started 6th grade. Five years ago is when we first heard the term vitiligo. After finding out that the white area of skin under Ryan’s lip was Vitiligo, I started learning all I could about vitiligo. The vitiligo didn’t bother him at all. Ryan’s vitiligo didn’t start spreading until the summer of 2002. Until then we hadn’t even gone to a dermatologist. When we did finally see a dermatologist I was very disappointed with the doctor’s attitude. He basically told us that it was cosmetic more than anything and that there are make-ups that can cover it. Well, Ryan doesn't want to cover his vitiligo up. If it can’t be cured, he’d be just happy to show it to the world. Of course that’s easy to say when you're 12 years old. I'm on guard all the time, watching for new areas or spreading of existing areas of vitiligo.

At this point we are so lucky that the vitiligo has mostly affected just below his lower lip, chin and neck. I cant help but wonder where it’ll show up next. I also wonder if Ryan will be able to keep his positive attitude during his upcoming teenage years. I certainly hope so!

Ryan’s father and I will always support the decisions he makes concerning treatment. It is his body after all, and he’s old enough to be responsible for following a treatment plan.

It’s been really interesting taking our book around town. Some people knew right away what Vitiligo is and others can’t even pronounce it let alone describe what it is. So I’ve been very thankful that I’ve been given the opportunity to help educate others. Getting to meet so many wonderful people at the AVRF Seminar was so special.

In my opinion, Ryan has become a real advocate for children with vitiligo. He can explain what it is and how he feels about it. He did a question and answer session for his class last year. I’m very proud of Ryan. His attitude is wonderful. Ryan is a great role model for his younger brothers and sister. I hope that Ryan will always feel comfortable with himself. He knows he’s got his parent’s support and his entire family's admiration.

Ryan's Vitiligo

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