Mother Defends Decision to Treat Newborn’s Birthmark with Laser Therapy Amid Online Backlash
Brooke Atkins, a 36-year-old mother, has faced intense criticism online after sharing her decision to undergo laser treatment for her three-year-old son Kingsley’s prominent Port Wine Stain (PWS) birthmark.
The mark, which covers half of Kingsley’s face, was linked to underlying health risks, including glaucoma and Sturge-Weber syndrome, a rare neurological disorder.
Kingsley was born in 2022 with the noticeable mark, which doctors later confirmed required medical attention.
Six months after his birth, Brooke and her husband opted for laser treatment to manage the birthmark and prevent complications.
However, when Brooke shared their journey on social media, she was met with fierce backlash, with some critics branding her a “monster” and accusing her of making her son “insecure” from birth.
Medical Necessity
Brooke clarified that the treatment was not for cosmetic removal but to prevent the birthmark from worsening over time, which could have led to further damage to the area.
“Port Wine Stains typically get worse and darken over time, and Kingsley’s birthmark could have become considerably more noticeable as he was growing up,” she explained.
“The purpose of the laser treatments is to keep the skin healthy and prevent any further damage.”
Support and Criticism
Despite the backlash, Brooke has also received support from other parents who understand the medical necessity of the treatment.
Social media updates show Kingsley’s birthmark has significantly faded, now appearing as a pale pink undertone.
Brooke continues to defend her decision, focusing on her son’s long-term health rather than online criticism.
“I know what’s best for my child,” she said.