Matilda Callaghan was born in 2012 with a rare neurological skin disease called Sturge-Weber syndrome, which causes paralysis, seizures, learning difficulties, and a distinctive birthmark. Initially thought to be a bruise, the mark on Matilda’s face was soon diagnosed as a birthmark linked to the condition. Her parents faced extreme worry as Matilda’s health rapidly deteriorated, and she required urgent surgery for two holes in her heart. Despite the grim prognosis, Matilda survived and began laser treatments to gradually fade her birthmark, though it could take up to 16 years to fully disappear.
Matilda’s disease also caused her to lose much of her vision and hindered her ability to walk, though she can take a few steps with a special walking frame. Despite these challenges, Matilda remains a cheerful, determined little girl, enduring regular medical treatments and coping with hurtful stares and comments from others. Her family continues to support her, raising funds for new equipment like a wheelchair to help her live life to the fullest. Now 8 years old, Matilda’s strength and resilience inspire all who meet her.
