Thanks to social media, we are constantly flooded with pictures of people who look perfect; it feels like the world has become even more superficial in how people are judged.
For those of us who don’t match the typical idea of being “perfect,” the world can feel really harsh, with total strangers thinking it’s okay to criticize someone just because of how they look on social media.
Karine de Souza understands this better than anyone else. The Brazilian woman has spent her life applying SPF100 sunscreen on her skin – even when she’s at home – because of her rare skin condition.
At 33 years old, she was diagnosed with Xeroderma Pigmentosum when she was just three, which means she has a high chance of getting skin cancer.
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Her “one-in-a-million” condition, which cannot be cured, makes her very sensitive to UV rays since she can’t fix any damage the sun does to her skin.
Just a few minutes in the sun can lead to extremely painful sunburn for her. While growing up, she often felt cut off from the outside world because it was too risky for her to be outside for long periods.
“When I go out in the sun, I don’t feel anything at that moment. But later on, the lesions show up and have to be taken off because of cancer,” she says.
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Karine has gone through 130 surgeries to take away lesions from the sun, which included removing her lower lip and part of her nose.
Unfortunately, it’s not just a physical struggle for her. Karine often faces stares on the street and has experienced verbal abuse both in her community and online.
However, even with all her pain, she stays positive and cheerful and has even found love.
She met her husband Edmilson on social media, and he fell in love with her “story and her strength.” Edmilson has always been there for Karine, and he knew he wanted to be with her forever.
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He also chose to accept Karine’s three kids from her past relationship, which meant a lot to her.
“He came and showed me that I could have a real love story,” she says.
But after sharing pictures of them together online, Karine faced a lot of hurtful comments again.
“We have seen many nasty comments calling me a monster, deformed, a zombie,” Karine said, according to the Daily Mail.
Other comments claimed that their relationship wasn’t real and that Karine was a “sugar mommy,” suggesting she must be very wealthy.
Posted by Daniel Panisson Fotografias on Sunday, October 7, 2018
“Karine mentioned that people noticed her boyfriend because he is young and good-looking, which made them doubt that he was with her for real feelings.”
A photographer who took pictures of the couple after their engagement shared some of the photos online and said:
“In a world where looks are more important than feelings, their meeting was not just a coincidence. It was a beautiful connection of souls, where acceptance, character, and love came together. Today, they inspire many who struggle with self-belief, life, and especially love.
“I am grateful every day for who you are. Stop complaining about being yourself. Embrace life and accept who you are. Thank you for teaching me so much. You both are incredible. You bring hope to so many. I appreciate the big hug and the amazing day we shared. I will always remember your smile.”
His touching words and the stunning photos of Karine and Edmilson became very popular, with thousands of people leaving comments to congratulate them.
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Karine wants to inspire people to understand how crucial it is to keep a positive mindset.
“Stay cheerful, smile, because you only get one life,” she mentioned.
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In 2023, Karine and Edmílson celebrated the arrival of their baby girl, and they are overjoyed! Their daughter, Zaia, was eagerly anticipated – Karine and her husband had been trying to have a baby since 2020.
Karine has faced many challenges, but with her optimistic outlook, she has discovered the joy shedeserves.
Her story is inspirational so help us inspire others in similar situations by sharing this story with your friends and family.
