Upon learning about the birthmark, Celine experienced concerns and wondered about its implications for Vienna’s future. Determined to ensure her daughter could grow up without feeling different, Celine decided to pursue the removal of the birthmark, despite initial criticism from medical professionals.
Although the birthmark did not pose any physical health risks to Vienna, her parents, fearing potential teasing from other children, were primarily concerned about its impact on her mental well-being as she grew older. Celine mentioned that the family sometimes concealed Vienna’s birthmark when they went out, sharing, “We went out daily with her and got a few stares.”
Seeking assistance from the NHS, the family faced disheartening feedback as doctors deemed the surgery to remove the birthmark a cosmetic procedure. Disagreeing with this perspective, Vienna’s parents, worried about their daughter’s social acceptance and future self-esteem, took matters into their own hands and initiated a crowdfunding campaign.
Within 24 hours, they managed to raise $52,000, but due to increased hospital costs in 2020, an additional $27,000 had to be raised. Despite disagreements between the medical team and the parents, they eventually reached their fundraising goal.
The controversy stemmed from differing opinions between the parents, who wanted the birthmark removed through surgery, and the surgeon who refused, believing the child should make the decision once she reaches an appropriate age. Even after consulting with a dermatologist who supported the surgeon’s stance, Vienna’s father, Daniel Brookshaw, expressed dissatisfaction with the doctor’s viewpoint.
Vienna, now two years old, has successfully undergone surgery to remove her birthmark, leaving only a faint scar between her eyebrows. Celine regularly shares updates on Vienna’s scar and recovery process on social media, receiving comments on how beautiful her daughter looks.
While the birthmark is gone, the family still travels between cities for check-ups on the healing of the scar, raising questions about potential additional procedures beyond the three Vienna has already undergone. Despite these challenges, Vienna is now enjoying the typical life of a two-year-old.
This story sheds light on the delicate balance between parental advocacy and a child’s autonomy in medical decisions. While Vienna’s parents aimed to secure her social acceptance and well-being, medical professionals stressed the importance of respecting Vienna’s future autonomy over her own body. The narrative prompts broader reflections on the rights of minors in the medical realm, highlighting the intricate ethical considerations involved in navigating the boundaries of parental authority and individual autonomy
