First Annual Australian Vascular Birthmark Foundation Fundraiser/Awareness Ball
It has always been clear that my birthmark was a prominent feature of me. Not only does it cover half of my face, but it also runs down all across my body in scattered areas. They say that approximately 1 in every 10 children is born with some type or form of vascular birthmark; whether mild or severe each individual holds a special story or experience. It is only from these stories that we can learn, understand and eventually be motivated to spread the underlying message. But this never comes easy.

My family and friends probably noticed during my childhood that any discussion or reference to my skin colour was a taboo topic. I was uncomfortable speak about it, and uncomfortable with pointing it out. However, it was about two and a half years ago, that I think I nearly hit rock bottom. I’m used to people stopping, staring, pointing and asking about it. I pretty much got the works, most of the time people were always concerned if I was “burnt”, but I think the icing of the cake was when one lady was quite adamant in making it obvious that I shouldn’t be ashamed to ask for help or assistance if I was getting physically abused. What did eventually tip me over the edge was when each day of an entire week I was questioned about it. One lady was so determined to talk to me, that she came, pulled me aside and told me that there “was help available for me.” Despite knowing she was only trying to help, I couldn’t help feel patronized and helpless. Feeling completely sorry for myself, one evening I “googled” birthmarks and I stumbled across an official website for Birthmarks. I started to become hooked on reading the hundreds of discussion posts and was amazed at how well I could relate to most of the issues regarding relationships, self-confidence, public perception and adolescent issues. The knowledge that I wasn’t alone automatically skyrocketed my outlook on life and most importantly my own perception of myself, and I think a lot of people surrounding me noticed that too. I began to encourage my friends to talk about it and ask questions and it felt naturally comfortable providing explanations. Now when people in general question about my birthmark, no longer are they answered with a bitter response, but with a smile. For this reason, it has been an absolute honour to be asked to be the Australian Representative for the Vascular Birthmark Foundation.

As my first official assignment, the first ever Vascular Birthmark Foundation Charity/Awareness Ball was held in Australia at Leonda by the Yarra, Melbourne on Saturday 13th October. Approximately 70 guests attended the function, and we were fortunate to raise just over $500 AUS from their amazing generosity through the sale of tickets, merchandise and raffle. The night was an amazing one. The music was playing and guests were dancing up until the wee early hours of the morning. Guests are still commenting on what a great night it turned out to be, and how much fun they had. Not only that the response and reviews about the foundation that I am still receiving up until this moment is truly overwhelming and just goes to show how important it is for such an organization to exist not only in Australia but internationally as well.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the number of people and companies whose support, kindness and generosity was able to take the occasion possible. To the major sponsors – The Optical Superstore, The Red Balloon Candy Shop and Quest Hotels. To Omer Gokmen from AG Print for all the printing of the invitations, tickets, posters and brochures, Tegan Mel for all her efforts on the media releases and Jason Lim for this graphic designing skills. Last but not least, a big thank you to family and friends. There is a real need for an association to build a network that provides both information and support. If one person’s story can help and inspire another, then the aims of VBF are achieved. Therefore the night was a very important and valuable occasion. It is a reflection that we are just one step closer towards knowledge, understanding and awareness, not just for those with a birthmark, but also for society in general.

Proudly Sponsored by:
The Optical Superstore
The Red Balloon
Quest Hotels

Hosted by VBF Australia Chapter Representative, Eloisa Evangelista