Support children with facial differences in Taiwan

At just nine years old, A-Hsi lives with her family in Hualien, in eastern Taiwan. She was born with a purplish-blue mark on the left side of her face, later diagnosed as a vascular birthmark (hemangioma). Doctors also warned of a potential risk of glaucoma, requiring long-term monitoring and care.

For years, A-Hsi’s family searched for answers. When she was five, they were introduced to the Sunshine Foundation through a charitable medical outreach program. After careful consultation, her mother made the difficult decision to travel to Taipei regularly for treatment—marking the beginning of a long journey of healing.

Since then, A-Hsi has undergone laser treatment every two months, supported by the Sunshine Foundation’s medical and transportation subsidies. To maximize effectiveness, each session is performed without anesthesia. Despite the intense pain—often bringing tears—A-Hsi bravely endures every procedure. To date, she has completed 26 treatment sessions.

Growing Up with a Facial Difference

From a young age, A-Hsi was aware that she looked different. She would often ask her mother, “Why am I not the same as other people?”

Her mother gently reassured her: “This is a unique gift and story given to you.”

Today, A-Hsi has learned to appreciate her appearance. Still, like many children, she sometimes wonders what she would look like without the birthmark.

At school, other children are occasionally curious and may talk about her appearance. But A-Hsi’s optimism shines through. Rather than feeling discouraged, she encourages herself and hopes to educate others: “I have a birthmark on the left side of my face. I want people to understand what it is and know that I’m no different from them. I also hope to make more friends.”

Strength Through Sports and Discipline

A-Hsi’s favorite subject in school is physical education. Through sports, she has discovered not only joy but also the value of perseverance and hard work.

She won a bronze medal in the junior girls’ division at the Hualien County Magistrate Cup Taekwondo Championship—an impressive achievement for someone balancing ongoing medical treatment.

However, her journey has not been without sacrifice. After each laser session, she must avoid sun exposure and carefully manage wound healing, which prevents her from wearing protective headgear or competing in tournaments. At times, she even pleaded with her mother to delay treatment so she could participate in competitions.

Preparing for taekwondo events also requires strict discipline in diet and physical training. Despite her young age, A-Hsi never complains. Instead, she trains quietly and diligently.

She shares: “Every time I fall, it motivates me to work harder. I hope to become a national athlete one day and represent my country.”

More Than Medical Care: A Holistic Support System

Living with a vascular birthmark and undergoing long-term treatment has shaped A-Hsi’s resilience and outlook on life. She has learned to face challenges with courage and positivity.

Her mother reflects with deep gratitude:
“The Sunshine Foundation has cared for us like family. They provided medical information, treatment subsidies, transportation support, material assistance, school awareness programs, and scholarships. They gave me strength during our most difficult times.”

She also offers encouragement to other families of children with facial differences:
“The Sunshine Foundation is always here. We are not alone. Even when life is difficult, we must hold on to hope.”

Why This Matters

Children with facial differences in Taiwan often face not only medical challenges but also social stigma, emotional stress, and barriers to opportunity. Through integrated support—including financial support for medical care, rehabilitation, psychological support, and public education—the Sunshine Foundation helps children like A-Hsi build confidence and thrive.

Your support makes stories like hers possible.