One of the most remarkable things about being human is our uniqueness. In recent years, there’s been growing recognition of how important it is to celebrate what makes us different—and few stories capture that truth as beautifully as the journey of Nicole Lucas Hallson and her daughter, Winry.
Nicole is a dedicated mom and teacher raising two children: her son Asher and her daughter Winry. But beyond daily parenting, she’s become an advocate for a more inclusive view of beauty—one that honors real people and real experiences. Her mission began the day Winry was born in February 2021, when Nicole discovered her daughter had a rare skin condition called congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN)—a birthmark that covers a portion of Winry’s face.
Though Nicole had a healthy and routine pregnancy, nothing prepared her for the moment she first saw her newborn daughter. At first, she thought the mark on Winry’s head might be a bruise. But as she and her husband took a closer look, they realized it was something different. “It looked like a mole,” Nicole recalled, “but I had never seen anything like it before.”
Doctors assured Nicole that Winry was perfectly healthy, and over time, the family began learning more about CMN. The condition, which is rare, causes birthmarks that can vary in size and appearance. While the diagnosis came as a surprise, Nicole and her partner quickly focused on learning how to support their daughter in every way—physically, emotionally, and socially.
Today, Nicole uses her social media platform to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and encourage kindness. “For many people, Winry is the first child they’ve seen with a birthmark like this,” Nicole explained. “That’s why we share our story—to help start conversations about differences and how beautiful they truly are.”
She’s also mindful of her daughter’s health. While CMN carries a small risk of medical complications, Nicole says their family follows recommended care routines, including sun protection and regular dermatology visits. But her biggest concern isn’t medical—it’s how society might treat her daughter in the future.
“Our hope is for Winry to grow up confident, joyful, and proud of who she is,” Nicole shared. “We know the world isn’t always kind to what it doesn’t understand, but if we can help even a few people see things differently, then we’ve made a difference.”
By all accounts, Winry is thriving. She’s energetic, cheerful, and full of personality. Nicole describes her daughter as “always laughing” and bursting with expressive joy. “She’s talking a lot these days—and she definitely has some sass. She knows what she wants!”
Nicole’s story is a powerful reminder that beauty comes in many forms—and that love, acceptance, and education can help create a more understanding world. Through her advocacy and her unwavering love for her daughter, Nicole is helping others learn to embrace what makes us all wonderfully unique.
