We are constantly exposed to pictures of people who appear to have perfect appearances because of the rise of social media; it seems that society has grown even more superficial in its assessment of other people.
It can seem like a very cruel world to those of us who don’t fit the stereotyped “perfect” pattern when total strangers feel compelled to judge someone based only on how they appear on social media.
The only one who is more conscious of this is Karine de Souza. Due to an uncommon skin issue, the Brazilian woman has worn SPF 100 sunscreen on her skin her entire life, even inside.
The 33-year-old is highly susceptible to developing skin cancer due to her Xeroderma Pigmentosum illness.
Due to her incurable “one-in-a-million” illness, she is extremely vulnerable to UV radiation because she is unable to repair any skin damage that the sun may inflict.
For her, even a short period of time in the sun can result in excruciating sunburns. She was frequently kept apart from the outside world as a child since it was very risky for her to spend a lot of time outside.
“I don’t feel anything when I expose myself to the light; it doesn’t happen instantly. But later on, the lesions develop and require removal due to malignancy,” she says.
To get rid of sun-related lesions, Karine has had 130 surgical procedures performed, including the removal of her bottom lip and a piece of her nose.
She has to overcome more than just a physical obstacle, though. Karine has experienced verbal abuse both offline and online, and she is often the target of curious looks while strolling along the street.
Through social media, she met her husband Edmilson, who was enamored with her “story and her strength.” Edmilson had consistently supported Karine, and he was certain that he wanted to live out his days with her.
Naturally, Karine was very touched by his decision to accept her three children from her former relationship.
She explains, “He came and he showed me that I could live a true love story.”
She’s even found love, yet her attitude on life is still upbeat.
Through social media, she met her husband Edmilson, who was enamored with her “story and her strength.” Edmilson had consistently supported Karine, and he was certain that he wanted to live out his days with her.
Naturally, Karine was very touched by his decision to accept her three children from her former relationship.
She explains, “He came and he showed me that I could live a true love story.”
However, Karine was once more subjected to a wide range of hurtful remarks after sharing pictures of them together on the internet.
According to the Daily Mail, Karine stated, “We have already read many offensive comments calling me a monster, deformed, or a zombie.”
Some remarks implied that Karine was a “sugar mommy,” that their connection wasn’t real, and that she must be extremely wealthy.
“People were drawn to him because he’s a young man with good looks, and they didn’t think he was with me because he really liked me,” Karine remarked.
A photographer who took pictures of the couple after they proposed shared a few of the pictures online with the following caption:
“They met not by accident, but rather through a gathering of souls. When their souls met, an encounter of acceptance, character, and love emerged. Today, you are an inspiration to so many people who do not believe in themselves, in life, and especially in love. In a world where appearance matters more than the feeling.”
“I appreciate you being who you are every day. Cease belittling yourself for who you are. Hug life and learn to love who you are. Many thanks for all of your lessons. You people are incredible. You are the hope that so many others are missing. I’m grateful for the warm embrace you gave me and the amazing day we had together. Your grin will always be with me.
His kind words and the stunning pictures he took of Karine and Edmilson went viral, receiving thousands of congratulations from admirers.
Karine wants people to understand how important positivity is.
She remarked, “Be joyful and smile because life only happens once.”
When Karine and Edmlson learned they were expecting a baby girl in 2023, they were ecstatic. After attempting to conceive since 2020, Karine and her spouse were thrilled to welcome Zaia into their household.
Despite everything Karine has been through, her positive attitude has enabled her to find the happiness she deserves.
