Sometimes in life, we are challenged, and sometimes more than others, but above all else, this story is about overcoming obstacles! Little Brenna and her parents are a reminder of how a parent’s love is unconditional no matter what.
Courtney and Evan Westlake were overjoyed to be expecting their second child. “I’ll have to learn to braid hair now,” Evan joked when they found out they were having a girl. But their plans changed completely when Brenna was born just before New Year’s Eve. She arrived covered in thick white scales, unable to move, and had to be rushed to intensive care. Brenna was diagnosed with Harlequin ichthyosis, a rare and serious condition that causes her skin to grow ten times faster than normal.
“Many people didn’t understand what was going on,” Courtney shared. Strangers stared, pointed, and even avoided Brenna on the playground. Courtney said, “Why do parents try to avoid talking to people who look different? They could just come up to me and ask how old Brenna is.”
Despite it all, Brenna is a proud and confident little girl, with her big brother Connor always by her side. Every night, Evan gently bathes her and applies cream to her skin. “We’re all unique,” Courtney says. Their story proves no challenge is too big with love and support.
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