Brenna was born with Harlequin ichthyosis, a rare skin condition that makes everyday life incredibly challenging for her and her family. From the beginning, her parents, Courtney and Evan, knew the road ahead would be tough. Many people didn’t understand her condition—often staring, pointing, or asking uncomfortable questions. While Courtney understands children’s curiosity, it’s the reactions from other parents that hurt most—when they pull their children away or leave the playground without a word.
In an ideal world, Courtney wishes parents would approach them and simply start a conversation. “Why do parents avoid talking to people who look different?” she asks. “Why can’t they say, ‘I don’t know, but we’re all unique’?”
Despite the challenges, Brenna is a confident, proud little girl with a strong support system. Her big brother, Connor, is one of her biggest cheerleaders. Her dad, Evan, shows incredible care—bathing her gently each night and applying the special cream to her delicate skin. Though Brenna has very little hair, he lovingly combs what she does have every day.
Brenna is like any other child in many ways—she loves playing with her brother and enjoying bedtime stories with her family. Her parents firmly believe she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to.
Courtney shares their journey through daily writing and authored a book titled A Different Beautiful, published in August 2016. The family hopes their story will inspire understanding and acceptance for those who look different, and show the strength found in unconditional love.
