A three-year-old boy from southern China, who was cruelly mocked and called “Mickey Mouse” due to balloon-like growths on his head, has made an incredible recovery after undergoing surgery to treat a rare skin condition. His journey is now being celebrated as a testament to medical progress, love, and resilience.
The Struggles of Qibao
The boy, named Qibao, was born in Fujian province with several large, dark moles covering his scalp, a result of a condition called congenital naevus. This rare disorder occurs when there is an overgrowth of pigment-producing cells, which leads to noticeable skin growths that can impact both physical appearance and emotional well-being.
Qibao’s condition significantly affected his appearance, and he was often cruelly mocked by others. He was given the nickname “Mickey Mouse” due to the balloon-like shape of the growths on his head. Despite the emotional challenges, his parents remained determined to seek medical treatment for their son.
Credit / Shutterstock
Surgical Treatment and Early Stages of Recovery
Doctors in Shanghai informed Qibao’s parents that the moles could be surgically removed, but before the procedure, they needed to stretch the skin on his head to ensure there would be enough tissue to cover the areas after the removal. The early stages of his treatment were tough, and footage shared by his family showed Qibao with two prominent, balloon-like skin expanders on either side of his head. This image led to even more hurtful taunts from others, but Qibao’s family persevered.
“We wiped away our tears and moved on,” said Qibao’s mother, Ms. Chen. Their determination and strength helped them push forward through the difficult times.
.
A Stunning Recovery
Five months after the initial treatment, Qibao’s surgery was declared a complete success. The moles were successfully removed, and post-operative videos showed Qibao, now bandaged but full of joy, playing in the hospital’s nursery. His transformation amazed thousands of people across Chinese social media.
One Douyin user wrote, “This boy is so brave, and so is his mum. I cried watching this.” Another commented, “I was teased for how I looked, too. This really hit home.”
The Impact of Congenital Naevus
Congenital naevus affects around one percent of newborns. In most cases, the moles are small and often referred to as “brown birthmarks.” However, in more severe cases like Qibao’s, surgical removal is necessary. This can sometimes require full-thickness skin grafts or other treatments like laser therapy or dermabrasion to help smooth the skin and promote proper regrowth.
A Story of Courage and Love
Now, with the hardest part of his treatment behind him, Qibao’s story serves as an inspiration to many. His courage, combined with his mother’s determination, has touched the hearts of people worldwide. Qibao’s transformation is not just a medical success, but a powerful reminder of the strength of love, perseverance, and the incredible advances in modern medicine.
Qibao’s journey, from being mocked for his condition to becoming a symbol of hope, continues to inspire others, proving that with courage and the right care, any obstacle can be overcome.
