When Brooke Atkins gave birth to her son Kingsley in 2022, she quickly realized his arrival would bring unexpected challenges. He was born with a large birthmark (PWS) covering half of his face. While these birthmarks are often harmless, in Kingsley’s case, they were linked to Sturge-Weber syndrome and glaucoma—serious conditions that can cause seizures and even blindness. From the start, it was clear that medical care would play a crucial role in his life.
When Kingsley was just six months old, Brooke and her partner, Kewene Wallace, made the difficult decision to treat his birthmark with laser therapy. Their goal was to protect his health, but the decision quickly drew sharp criticism online. Strangers accused Brooke of prioritizing appearance over her child’s well-being, and some cruelly called her a “monster.” She firmly explained that the treatments were not cosmetic, but necessary, as untreated birthmarks in PWS can darken and thicken over time, significantly complicating their later treatment.
Two years later, Brooke shares her son’s progress. His once prominent birthmark has faded to a delicate pink, demonstrating the effectiveness of the treatments. Nevertheless, she admits that she initially struggled with “bad maternal feelings” and questioned her decision due to negative reactions. She hopes that more people will take the time to understand the serious risks of PWS before making a judgment.
Kingsley’s health journey, however, doesn’t end with his birthmark. He suffers from Sturge-Weber syndrome and has experienced over 100 attacks in just a few years. He has already undergone three glaucoma surgeries. These conditions have led to frequent hospitalizations and lengthy recovery periods, which have demanded tremendous strength from both Kingsley and his family.
Despite all the difficulties, Brooke has remained resilient. She continues to share her story publicly to raise awareness of PWS and Sturge-Weber syndrome and to educate others. While the negative online attention once weighed on her, she now finds strength in the support of her parents and, above all, in the love for her son. Her journey underscores the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion that define parenthood.
