This is the story of Brenna Westlake—a little girl born with a rare, life-threatening skin condition—and the parents whose love never wavered.

Courtney and Evan Westlake were thrilled to be expecting their second child. They imagined the usual joys of raising a little girl—braiding hair, family outings, watching her grow. But when Brenna was born just before New Year’s Eve, everything changed.

She arrived covered in thick white scales, unable to move or regulate her temperature. Doctors rushed her to the NICU. Brenna had a rare genetic disorder called Harlequin ichthyosis, which causes her skin to grow up to ten times faster than normal. It’s painful, disfiguring, and often fatal. There’s no cure—just daily care to manage the symptoms.

Many people stare. Some whisper. Parents even pull their kids away from her in public. But Brenna is strong, proud, and full of confidence, thanks to the unwavering love of her family. Her big brother, Connor, defends her fiercely. Her parents, heartbroken by the ignorance around them, wish more people would simply say hello instead of turning away.

Evan, who once joked about learning to braid hair, now gently bathes Brenna each night and applies her special cream—every single day.

This family’s journey is a powerful reminder: love sees beyond appearances. It pushes through pain, judgment, and fear—and helps a little girl shine.