My name is Hanan and I am 26 years old. I am from Saudi Arabia and I am the only one in my family with ichthyosis. This is my story. I was born in a society that was not educated with this disease. I suffered from the looks of people throughout my academic career and in my community.

I also suffered from many embarrassing situations due to illness. I used to wonder why I was created like this. With every passing from one stage to another, I would ask myself why I was created like this until I reached the university stage. I stopped questioning and started to say thank God that it is me.

I loved myself very much, and I loved being different too. I am convinced that whoever wants to love me will see my soul, not my disease. I am now an architect, writer, composer and singer!

What's Your Story? We'd Love to Hear It!

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Neither FIRST, its Board of Directors, Medical & Scientific Advisory Board, Board of Medical Editors, nor Foundation staff and officals endorse any treatments listed here.  All issues pertaining to the care of patients with ichthyosis should be discussed with a dermatologist experienced in the treatment of their skin disorder.