Sarah VanDyne, United States (US), Ohio

Like so many others, my VM was misdiagnosed as an hemangioma when I was a child and we were encouraged to do nothing because “it would go away”. I sought treatment again as a teen and underwent my first surgery during which a plastic surgeon attempted sclerotherapy and went on later to do laser treatments without much success. My team of doctors encouraged me to stop pursuing treatment because it was too risky and I was “still pretty” despite my malformation.

Roughly ten years later I discovered the VBF and it has totally changed my life. Finally getting answers, finding such a beautiful community, and now beginning treatment with a vascular birthmark professional, I can’t express enough how thankful I am. This organization is saving lives.