Woman with rare skin condition overcomes negativity and finds true love

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 ‘perfect’, life 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. This Brazilian woman has spent her life slathering on SPF100 sunscreen – 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 puts her at a high risk for skin cancer.

Her “one-in-a-million” condition, which can’t be cured, makes her extremely 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 very painful sunburn for her. While growing up, she often had to stay away 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.

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.

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 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 said that people noticed her boyfriend because he is young and good-looking, and they found it hard to believe he liked her for real.”

A photographer who took pictures of the couple after their engagement shared some of the photos online and wrote:

“In a world where looks seem to matter more 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 to believe in themselves, in life, and especially in love.

“I want to thank you every day for being yourself. Stop complaining about who you are. Embrace life and accept yourself. I am so grateful for everything you’ve taught me. You both are incredible. You bring hope to so many people. Thank you for the big hug and for the amazing day we shared. I will always carry your smile with me.”

His touching words and the stunning photos of Karine and Edmilson became very popular, with thousands of people leaving comments to congratulate the couple.

Karine hopes to encourage others to see how important it is to stay positive.

“Be happy, smile, because life only happens once,” she said.

In 2023, Karine and Edmilson welcomed a baby girl, and they are overjoyed! Their daughter, Zaia, was much anticipated – Karine and her husband had been trying for a baby since 2020.

Karine has faced many challenges, but her positive outlook has helped her find the happiness she deserves.

Her story is truly inspiring, so let’s help motivate others in similar situations by sharing this story with your friends and family.