Brenna’s Beautiful Strength: Living with Harlequin Ichthyosis

Brenna was born with Harlequin ichthyosis, a rare and severe skin condition that makes daily life difficult.

Her parents, Courtney and Evan, quickly learned that raising a child who looks different brings not only medical

challenges but also social ones—especially when others stare, avoid, or make insensitive remarks.

Courtney often finds the reactions of other parents the hardest to bear. Rather than using curiosity as a teaching moment,

many simply turn away. “Why not just say, ‘I don’t know, but we’re all unique’?” she asks.

Despite the obstacles, Brenna is thriving—confident, joyful, and deeply loved. Her older brother, Connor, cheers her on, and her

father shows gentle devotion through her daily skincare routine. Though Brenna has little hair, Evan tenderly combs what she has every morning.

Courtney shares their journey through daily writing and in her book, A Different Beautiful (2016), advocating for kindness and acceptance.

The family’s story is a powerful reminder that love, not appearance, defines a person’s worth—and that true beauty comes from strength and compassion.