The Global Ambassadors are a network of advocates for the Vascular Birthmarks Foundation who work together to raise awareness about vascular birthmarks, anomalies, and related syndromes (VBARS) all while cultivating a supportive community. This network is comprised of people living with a vascular birthmark, as well as friends and family members who have a loved one affected by VBARS. We are organized into five fundamental committees, which are led by members of the VBF Global Ambassador Council. Our council is composed of the most active advocates within the Global Ambassador program who donate extra commitment time towards maintaining program engagement. Each committee initiative serves the purpose of expanding our reach and spreading awareness about VBARS, while supporting the mission of the VBF. Our committees consist of Regional & Virtual Meet Ups, Awareness, Fundraising, Ask/Accept Anti-Bullying, and the Parent Advocacy Network. The VBF Global Ambassador Program supports the VBF mission, provides helpful resources to our network, and amplifies Dr. Linda Rozell-Shannon’s vision.
Regional and Virtual Meet Ups organizes, facilitates, and encourages members of the VBF Global Ambassador community to connect through channels beyond social media such as Zoom meetings or in person local meet ups.
Fundraising helps our community raise funds for VBF through online and in person events which goes towards our mission of networking those affected by a vascular birthmark, anomaly or related syndrome (VBARS) to the appropriate medical professionals for evaluation and possible treatment.
Awareness is designed to help educate, spread VBF resources as well as expand the VBF Global Ambassador program by connecting Ambassadors with areas of interest in the Vascular Birthmarks Foundation network.
Ask/Accept Anti-Bullying promotes a ‘Bully-Free’ zone and will raise awareness in regards to handling bullying, acceptance and provide support within the community.
Parent Advocacy Network is a safe space created to help navigate the journey for parents and families with children affected by VBARS.
Search this page to find someone local – or with whom you’d like to connect – to learn more about:
- Physicians in your area who can help to medically manage vascular birthmark cases
- Their experience living with a vascular birthmark
- VBF’s Day/Month of Awareness, Put on Your Birthmark, Buddy Booby Read-Along, Ask/Accept anti-bullying, and other birthmark advocacy and awareness programs
- Fundraising events in support of VBF – create a Birthday Fundraiser and get some awesome VBF Global Ambassador swag!
- And much more!
If you or someone in your family has a birthmark and you’d like to speak with others who have had a similar experience, the Global Ambassadors can also help find personal support from other patients and families based on their own unique experiences.
NEWSLETTERS
AWARENESS
- VBF Global Ambassador Facebook Group. With almost 800 members!
- Vascular Birthmarks Awareness Video on TV. Airs nationally on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service).
- Global Ambassador Awareness Video Project. Question and Answer with VBF Global Ambassadors.
RESOURCES
- Global Ambassador Training. Required training for all VBF Global Ambassadors.
- Volunteer Release. Required release for all VBF Global Ambassadors.
CONTACT
- Want to learn more about the VBF Global Ambassadors? For any questions or feedback, please contact:
Scott Cupples
Director, VBF Global Ambassador Program
scott@birthmark.org
Search Our Ambassadors
Celina Leroy, United States, New York
I have a Port Wine stain on my chin, lip and cheek. I started laser treatments very young but stopped after I didn’t see changes to the size or color. However, Technology has improved and I am back at it! I had my second laser treatment this year, and I am seeing improvements! I had two “debulking” surgeries on my lip to decrease the size and create symmetry.
I have been making paintings of people with birthmarks which you can see on my Instagram page, @portwinestainpaintings! I am really happy to connect with people with birthmarks! Send me a DM if you want to chat. <3
Chad Blythe, United Kingdom, None
Hi my name is Chad, I’m 21 and I was born with a port wine stain on the right hand side of my face going up to the top of my head. Up until the age of 6 I had 12 laser surgery’s to reduce the redness/brake up my birthmark. Throughout my childhood I never had any problems because of my birthmark, or if I did they were small that I can’t remember them. I normally forget I have a birthmark unless it catch it in the mirror or someone looks. I don’t have a problem people asking me questions about my birthmark, I’d rather them ask then just stare. You should never be afraid of what people think or say about it, it only matters what you fell inside. I personally don’t think is has held me back, in some ways I think it has helped.
Charles Alderson, United States, Arkansas
I grew up in the late 70’s and all 80’s with no treatment options and most doctors not knowing what a vascular birthmark or Sturge-Weber Syndrome was, or how to treat it. I was able to have some laser treatments in the early 90’s to help with the skin lumping and swelling. I had about 10 treatments over a 5 year span. My Sturge-Weber Syndrome also has caused glaucoma in right eye and I suffer from seizures. I’m married now with a son and Sturge-Weber Syndrome was not hereditary. Still going strong!
Chelsea Vincent, United States, South Carolina
On January 17th, 1992 a little one was born. She was welcomed with love by her family who has always embraced her little “angel kiss”. Growing up with a facial difference in my younger years was quite tough. Not knowing anyone like me and being singled out for being different was the norm. I began covering up and hiding behind caked on layers of make up at the age of eight. I spent eighteen years behind that mask before finally becoming at peace and finding love for my birthmark. Being our truest self and embracing our differences is the most freeing feeling of all.
Chelsey Peat, Canada, None
I was born with a large Port Wine Stain birthmark on my face. I also have a rare neurological condition called Sturge Weber Syndrome.
Growing up with these conditions brought many challenges, such as extreme surgeries, and learning to accept and love myself as I am. Yet, I haven’t let these struggles stop me and I have accomplished many goals including getting married and becoming a mother. One of my greatest achievements has been becoming a Global Ambassador for the Vascular Birthmarks Foundation. I actively advocate for individuals born with physical disabilities and facial differences.
Christine Shannon, United States, New York
My mother is Dr. Linda Rozell-Shannon, the president and founder of VBF. She started VBF after I was born with a hemangioma.
Cindy and Bailie Heston, United States, Oklahoma
My daughter Bailie is 9 years old. She was born with a port-wine stain on the right side of her face, extending to her neck, ear, and scalp. She has had 19 laser treatments at Shriner’s Hospital in Galveston, Texas.
Cindy Robichaud, Canada, None
My daughter Abby was born with a PWS. She has had many laser treatments and it has helped a lot. The treatments were being done in Nova Scotia but now we have to travel to New Brunswick for her to be sedated. She knows and lives her PWS….it makes her different…it makes her special. I tell her its where the Angels kissed her.
Corinne Barinaga, United States, Washington
My son Nicholas developed a larfe segmental hemangioma shortly after is birth in 2003. During my quest to find information I became involved in the VBF and was invited to join the team. I have been a patient advocate since 2004 with VBF. I am the current board chair. |
Dakota Roos, United States, Michigan
My name is Dakota, and I’ve been getting laser treatments since I was 11 months old until now! At 28 I have had countless laser treatments and am so thankful for every one of them. Life with a port wine stain has been eye opening, strengthening. I truly believe I am a better person for being born with my port-wine stain. I would love to help other people even if it’s just a conversation about what they are going through and have recently created a Give2MyVBF page!