Two-year-old Vienna Shaw was born with a rare congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) on her forehead, affecting just one in 20,000 newborns. Her mother, Celine Casey, worried about the impact on Vienna’s life and decided to have it removed. Despite initial resistance from medical authorities, Vienna’s parents raised funds through a private campaign and succeeded in having the birthmark removed.
Medical professionals deemed it a cosmetic procedure, but Casey was concerned about potential teasing and its impact on Vienna’s mental well-being. They faced financial challenges but eventually reached their funding goal.
A disagreement arose between Vienna’s parents and the medical team, as the surgeon believed the decision should be left to the child when she’s older. The surgery was successful, leaving a faint scar.
Vienna’s case raises ethical questions about minors’ rights in healthcare. Today, she enjoys a typical two-year-old’s life.