For many, the summer time can be quite a love-and-hate event, when you are happy to hang out with your friends at the beach, but are still conscious about wearing the bikini that almost everyone else seems to have. Well, for 19-year-old Isa-Bella Leclair, her relationship with the beach is 100% positive.
Bustle reports that the young Canadian from New Brunswick recently made waves online when she posted a bikini selfie of herself having fun on the beach. Leclair has Parkes Weber Syndrome, which results in lymphedema, where damage to her lymphatic system causes fluid called lympha to go to and collect in her right leg. However, Leclair told The Telegraph that her condition doesn’t discourage her: “My condition doesn’t define me and no way I will let it stop me from wearing a cute swimsuit or a cute dress. I don’t fit in skinny jeans or fancy shoes so I have to find alternatives, but I always end up still feeling good about my body.”
In addition to social media, Leclair has shared her life-long experience with lymphedema on a blog for those who have the condition as well, called The Lymphie Life. Recently, she won first Princess at Miss Festival Pageant in her neighborhood! YouTube channel Barcroft TV also showcased Leclair’s story in the video below, displaying the strong support and esteem she receives from both family and friends.
As said in the video, Leclair wanted to inspire others with her selfie: “I guess what made me want to share my story and a picture of me in a bikini is that for me beauty is not just on the outside, it’s on the inside.” Leclair’s words are those of inspiration for not only others with her condition, but for people everywhere, and her message of loving the skin you’re in is one we all can benefit from.