Support children with facial differences in Taiwan

From Unseen Struggles to Courage and Confidence

This is the inspiring story of Hsiao-Hsin (now aged 16), who was born with a facial vascular birthmark — a mark shaped like a butterfly on the left side of her face that deeply affected her and her family’s life.

When she was born, doctors told her parents the birthmark would eventually fade on its own. However, as time went by, it became more visible and didn’t disappear as expected. Worried and unsure where to turn, her mother searched online for information about vascular birthmarks and ultimately found the Sunshine Social Welfare Foundation — a trusted source of correct guidance, emotional support, and medical assistance.

Support When It Was Needed Most

Sunshine provided:

• Accurate medical information and consultation
• Treatment referrals and guidance
• Financial assistance for medical costs

These supports helped reduce the heavy economic burden on Hsiao-Hsin’s family so they could focus on treatment and care. “The hospital costs were high and our family struggled to afford them,” her mother recalled. “Thanks to Sunshine’s support, the financial pressure was greatly eased.”

Bravery Through Pain and Persistence

To achieve the best possible results, Hsiao-Hsin underwent laser treatments without anesthesia, enduring pain and tears because she believed it would ultimately help. Her mother stayed by her side throughout — feeling the pain of helplessness that often outweighs the physical discomfort of treatment itself.

They traveled frequently from Miaoli County to Taoyuan for treatment. “It wasn’t the long distance or fatigue that was hardest,” her mother shared, “it was watching my child endure pain, clenching her teeth and trembling, while I could only hold her small hand.”

Living Beyond Others’ Judgments

As a child, the “butterfly mark” attracted stares and questions in public. Even with careful communication with teachers and classmates before entering school, Hsiao-Hsin faced exclusion and misunderstanding at times.

Yet she didn’t give up. With courage and determination, she sought genuine friendships and learned to adjust her mindset. Over time, she found supportive peers who accompanied her through both learning and growth.

Achievements and Strength of Character

Throughout elementary and middle school, Hsiao-Hsin demonstrated excellent academic performance and was a recipient of the Sunshine Foundation’s scholarship support. She gratefully said:“Thank you, Sunshine, for the scholarship. I want to save this money to pursue meaningful interests in the future.”

A New Chapter of Self-Acceptance

Today, the vascular birthmark on Hsiao-Hsin’s face has faded significantly, and she has grown into a young woman who faces life with confidence and hope.Her mother shared with gratitude:“Thanks to Sunshine’s information, medical aid, and emotional support, our daughter no longer walks this path alone.”

Join Us in Supporting More Transformations Like Hsiao-Hsin’s

Your support helps Sunshine continue delivering medical aid, psychological support, and empowerment for children and youth with vascular anomalies, burns, and facial differences.

Your generous donation ensures that no one has to walk this journey alone.
Thank you for helping transform challenges into strength and hope.