When Angelica was born on May 6, 2018, she had striking features — a sweet button nose, bright eyes, and a heart-shaped port wine stain on her face.
Her mother, Marianna Bowering, adored her daughter’s unique beauty, but not everyone was kind. While many friends and family were supportive, online trolls made cruel remarks. One of the harshest comments compared Angelica’s face to being burned on a skillet.
Some even called her “hideous” or a “defect,” but Marianna refused to let those words define her daughter. Determined to build Angelica’s confidence, Marianna celebrated her little girl’s birthmark rather than hide it.
On Vascular Birthmark Awareness Day, she painted an identical version of Angelica’s mark on her own face — a powerful symbol of love and solidarity. Inspired by her daughter’s bravery and beauty, she proudly posted, “Wanted to be as beautiful as my daughter… she’s still prettier.”
Despite suggestions to cover up the birthmark with makeup or hopes it would fade over time, Marianna remained firm — her daughter didn’t need to change. Instead, she even decorated Angelica’s birthmark with glitter to make it sparkle.
Although facial port wine stains can be linked to health concerns like glaucoma, Angelica has remained healthy, undergoing regular check-ups just to be safe.
Through every judgment and comment, Marianna’s message is clear: Angelica is beautiful just the way she is. Her story is a powerful reminder of unconditional love, acceptance, and the beauty of being different.
