When Brenna was born, her parents, Courtney and Evan, were met with an unexpected reality. She arrived with Harlequin ichthyosis—a rare genetic condition that affects the skin, causing it to form thick, plate-like layers. The diagnosis came suddenly and brought many unknowns. But what remained unchanged was their love for their daughter.
From the beginning, Courtney and Evan knew their journey as parents would look a little different. There would be extra care, added routines, and moments of challenge—but also a deep and unwavering devotion. Brenna was their daughter, and that was what mattered most.
As Brenna grew, her condition became more visible to others. Out in public, her family often encountered curious glances or whispered questions. While children sometimes asked with honest curiosity, it was the discomfort from some adults that stood out the most. Courtney remembers times at playgrounds when other families would leave abruptly, unsure of how to respond. “I don’t expect everyone to know everything,” she reflects, “but a little kindness goes a long way.”
Even in the face of these experiences, Brenna is thriving. She’s vibrant, joyful, and surrounded by love. Her older brother, Connor, is her biggest supporter and closest friend. Her dad, Evan, shows incredible care—gently applying creams to Brenna’s skin, giving her relaxing baths, and brushing her hair with the same attention any parent would offer a beloved child.
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