Alabama resident Ashley Jernigan, 35, battles neurofibromatosis, causing painful tumors all over her body. Subjected to a lifetime of stares and bullying, she endures the pebble-like growths due to fear they might return larger and more perilous if removed. Jernigan, a mother of four, faces challenges in her social life, with the condition hindering her desire to date. Despite the benign nature of the tumors, there’s a risk they could evolve into cancer. Jernigan lost her mother to neurofibromatosis at 25, further intensifying her concerns. Resolute in her decision, she refuses surgery but stays vigilant, stating, “It takes a strong person to overcome what people say.” Her story highlights the emotional and physical toll of living with this birth defect.
