This is Abbie Tessa Bryant. She was burned by a hair dryer when she was 2 months old. Her family used a hair dryer as a white noise machine. One night the family cat was curious and knocked over the hair dryer; it pointed directly at Abbie while in her crib. The hot air melted the skin from her legs and feet. She spent months in the hospital and endured many surgeries. When Abbie got older, her toes were unable to grow properly due to the skin being so tight. She had to get her toes amputated to prevent them from pulling upwards and sitting on top of her foot. Abbie struggles to show her scars and pushed way past her comfort zone participating in this project. I am so happy that she agreed to bear her soul and show the world something that is so personal. This is such an amazing way to finally put aside the internal fear of showing imperfections and embrace all of those things that make you who you are. Abbie is so beautiful, genuine, and caring. Thank you for your bravery. 

* A note from the author: Abbie was a student at Parkville High School while I was a teacher there. I never taught her, but I recognized her from the hallway. I was amazed when she reached out to me a few weeks ago to join this project. It’s crazy how you can be so close to people and not be aware of their personal struggles or how closely you might relate to them. Always be mindful of how your story might be able to inspire others.