Ghanaian vitiligo activist and model Abigail Anderson has shared her inspiring story on the latest episode of Changes on Joy Prime.

The programme, which aired on Wednesday, February 11, featured Abigail’s candid discussion about living with vitiligo, a skin condition that causes loss of skin pigment. Her appearance was aimed at raising awareness about the condition and promoting understanding.

“Everybody looks at me differently, and some say I’m pretty,” Abigail said, recalling how people react to her condition. She revealed that she was told her melanin cells are destroyed and her skin colour will change.

Abigail said she began noticing symptoms at 17, with the first patches appearing on her lips. “It doesn’t have any particular age,” she said, emphasising that vitiligo can affect anyone at any stage of life.

Despite the challenges, she said her doctor helped her build self-awareness by encouraging her to accept herself. “He told me to accept who I am, that’s who I am now,” she said.

Abigail explained that she was initially prescribed pills, which slowed the symptoms. However, they returned twofold when she stopped taking them. “I wasn’t confident like now because it was new to me,” she admitted.

She also faced numerous questions and doubts from people, including her parents, who were cautious because no one in their family had vitiligo. While some people admire her appearance, others ask ignorant questions.

“Some people ask if I got burnt,” Abigail shared, highlighting the misconceptions surrounding vitiligo. She noted that there is a possibility the condition could progress, describing it as a “50-50 affair”.

Abigail’s story stands as a testament to self-acceptance and resilience, as she continues to use her platform to challenge stigma and educate the public about vitiligo.