GOSH Research review 2012/13

Fay’s story by her mum Lucy “It was only after Fay was born that we realised something was wrong. She was born with a very large dark and disfiguring mark that covered about 70 per cent of her body.

Although we were later informed she had congenital melanocytic naevus (CMN), we knew little about this condition. All I wanted to do was go home and wrap my little family in a cocoon.

“When Fay turned six months she was referred to GOSH. Initially we were seen by Dr David Atherton, and since then we have been under the care of Dr Veronica Kinsler.

They helped explain Fay’s condition in detail and were able to answer all of our questions.

Through their support we have become more understanding of Fay’s condition.

“At eight months, Fay had an MRI scan, which thankfully showed no underlying problems beneath the skin. Fay now attends Dr Kinsler’s clinic every four months where she is monitored closely due to the extent of her CMN. The doctors at GOSH have been amazing.

“Fay does not let her condition stop her doing what she wants to do. She is a very bright, happy and bubbly girl with a lot of confidence. She particularly enjoys street dancing and has entered competitions up and down the country.

“We are extremely grateful to Dr Kinsler for her commitment and dedication to research into skin disorders. The breakthrough she made in identifying what causes CMN highlights how important research is to us and children like Fay and their families. We never thought such an achievement would be made in such a short space of time.”