Woman with rare genetic skin condition embracing appearance after years of hiding

A woman born with a rare genetic skin condition that covers 98% of her body in birthmarks has spoken of how she is learning to embrace her appearance after years of trying to hide it.

Laura Kelly, 28, was born with congenital melanocytic naevus (CMN) and underwent 14 operations as a baby, with doctors fearing she may not live beyond the age of eight.

Laura said CMN made her self-conscious about how strangers might react and that, growing up as a teenager, she often wore heavy makeup and planned outfits to cover her skin.

She said embracing how she looks and raising awareness of CMN has given her more confidence and hopes sharing her story will help others with a visible difference.

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"Gaining confidence doesn't happen overnight, by no means. It takes time and it's okay to feel self-conscious, it's okay to feel different.

"I never thought in a million years that I would walk out of the house with a pair of shorts on from I was like 13 or so, but now it does happen. And I'm proud of myself, I have to say."