Brave Willow is helping out other families

Inspirational baby Willow Hughes has already had a rocky journey, despite being just over a year old. Willow, from Carnoustie, was born with a strawberry birthmark on her face, which has led to many challenges and hospital trips in her short life.

But her mum Katy said their “little superstar” is now helping other babies like her.

“Willow was our little superstar from the very beginning,” she said.

“She was born by C-section, and right away we noticed a slight mark on her face.”

A few weeks later, she attended an appointment at dermatology.

The mum-of-four said: “By that time, her mark had become really red, raised and had taken over the right side of her face.”

Although birthmarks are common, the size, position and Willow having been born with it made hers more rare.

“There were lots of people in and out of the room, and they said it was a hemangioma, which is a tumour.”

Thankfully, the results of an MRI showed Willow’s hemangioma had not gone into her brain or affected her liver. But to stop it affecting her eyesight, she had to start treatment immediately.

She was admitted to hospital for more than a week.

Katy said: “The stay was full of ups and downs with many a panic at beeping machines, medical teams crowding Willow’s tiny cot and sleepless nights.”

Due to the pandemic, Katy was the only person who could stay with Willow.

“It was an extremely challenging time for our family, but it was full of love, care, kindness and support,” said Katy.

Katy said despite all the challenges, Willow takes it in her stride and is not phased by the continuing medical appointments.

Willow is also now helping others, along with family and friends, by raising money for the department that treated her.

Katy said: “This Saturday, we will be cycling from Dundee City Quay to Glasgow Pacific Quay to raise money for the dermatology department.”

Dad Kevin and Willow’s sisters will follow some of the 86-mile route by car, and others, including Willow’s lead consultant, will be cheering them on.

“We wouldn’t have done this without Willow,” said Katy.

“We’d love it if people support us in any way.”

BIRTHMARK: Willow is undergoing treatment after being born with a hemangioma.