This is for my parents who tell me no one wants ugly scars on their arms and legs, who tell me I need to get plastic surgery to get rid of these marks. This is for my friends, who tell me I can’t ever wear a t-shirt in public because my scars need to be hidden. This is for anyone who has ever tried to make me ashamed of my scars. One day, I’ll wear shorts and a t-shirt in public. And people will point and stare and whisper.

And I will smile and be okay.