MILAGROS Reynoso, 21, from Argentina, was born with the genetic condition neurofibromatosis that causes tumours to grow along the nerves. Mili was born with bruises on her face which doctors told her mother Natalia would naturally disappear. Instead they expanded over time into large tumours - obstructing the entire left side of her face, including her nose, left eye, and mouth. Mili has so far had eight operations to try and reduce the size of her tumours, which cause her numerous physical health problems. She said: “My eyesight has been progressively disappearing. I have lost it completely in my left eye. My palate gets swollen sometimes so I have to make an effort when I talk.” Mili experienced bullying due to her appearance, but has now found love and acceptance with her boyfriend Agustin, who she met at her local church group. Agustin said: “I felt her tumour was more of a virtue than a problem. To me she is beautiful. She’s a princess.” Mili now regularly posts on TikTok to educate other people about her condition and help break down the stigma attached to it. She said: “The first video I posted on TikTok was with my boyfriend, having fun. There’s many people who can’t believe I am in a relationship, they say I pay him! What I’d like people to know is that even if you have a problem with a physical condition, you don’t have to remain locked down. One is not defined by their physical appearance. When someone tells me that I can’t, I like to show them that I can.”
Follow Mili: https://www.tiktok.com/@milireynoso296
