Body
White Island volcano survivor's inspirational milestone
Australian White Island volcano survivor Stephanie Coral Browitt has shared a milestone moment in her continued recovery. Browitt, who suffered burns to 70 percent of her body in the devastating 2019 disaster, is embracing her "new skin" with courage and confidence.
Now 28, Browitt recently opened up about her journey towards self-love, admitting that learning to embrace herself has been a gradual process. "I was extremely self-conscious and worried about being judged every day," she said.
That fear took a significant step back on March 11, when Browitt posted a groundbreaking photo on social media – wearing a swimsuit for the first time since the eruption. The post, brimming with vulnerability, marked a huge moment of self-acceptance following the loss of her father Paul and sister Krystal in the tragedy.
"Due to the fear of being so visible, vulnerable & judged I haven't worn a swimsuit since before I suffered burns. Yet apparently all it took was a business trip to force me to face my fear," she wrote on Instagram.
"One big step forward was taken today & I'm so glad I've finally jumped this scary hurdle & for a good reason."
Accompanying her words was a photo of Browitt in a sleek black two-piece swimsuit, radiating confidence and strength.
In a recent interview, she also revealed that finding the right swimsuit took time, and when she finally put it on, she felt "nervous and could feel my heart racing".
However, what followed was an outpouring of support and love from her community. Encouraging comments flooded in, reassuring Browitt of her beauty, strength and unwavering spirit.
"Girlfriend, I’m sincere when I say this…you have absolutely nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about!!" one follower wrote. "You look beautiful and full-of-life!!! Your journey brings me hope and joy in my own life. You are amazing!! And don’t you ever forget it!"
Another supporter echoed the sentiment: "Your scars don’t define you!! They are proof you have survived a remarkable battle ❤️ Be confident in your skin - you are beautiful!!"
One particularly touching message from an older woman carried words of wisdom and encouragement: "You are a beautiful young woman, burns and all. Take it from a seventy-year-old woman, get out there and do everything. Time goes by so quickly, looks fade, your body may not want to work with you forever. Don't waste a minute worrying about these things. Love the suit! ❤️❤️"
View this post on Instagram
Images: Instagram
Our Partners
