A Small Heart, A Big Message: Sarnia Marks Vascular Birthmark Awareness Day

On May 15, a simple red heart is sparking an important conversation across Sarnia, Lambton County, and beyond.

At St. Matthew  and Holy Trinity Catholic Schools, students and staff are recognizing Vascular Birthmark Awareness Day—promoting understanding, compassion, and acceptance for those living with vascular birthmarks. Rooted in our Catholic faith, the day is also a reminder that every child is created in God’s image, uniquely loved and wonderfully made.

The message is simple: wear or create a red heart.

For the Phillips family, the day holds deep personal meaning. Their daughter, Katie, was born with a hemangioma, a vascular birthmark around her eye and face that once posed risks to her vision. At just two weeks old, she began treatment following extensive testing, starting her journey toward recovery.

Today, Katie is thriving.

“She calls it her beauty mark because she’s fabulous,” her mother, Jess, says with a smile.

As Katie prepares to begin school at St. Matthew in September 2026, her family hopes that greater awareness will help protect the confidence she carries so proudly.

“That’s why this matters—we want her to stay exactly who she is.”

Principal Marc Tremblay says the school community is ready to welcome her with open arms.

“We are excited to welcome Katie to St. Matthew, where every child is known, valued, and celebrated. Guided by our faith, we recognize the dignity of each person and the beauty in our differences. Raising awareness helps us build a culture of understanding and kindness, so all students feel confident, included, and proud of who they are.”

Vascular birthmarks are more common than many realize, yet they are rarely discussed and that silence can lead to misunderstanding.

Across St. Clair Catholic schools, educators are using the day to share a simple but powerful message with students:

• Everyone is different
• Differences should be celebrated
• Kindness and curiosity matter

With hopes of growing awareness locally and beyond, her message is heartfelt and simple:

“Just wear a heart on your face or neck. It can be a sticker, something you draw, or any creative idea. Make it fun.”

On May 15, wear a small heart that carries a big message:

You are seen. You are understood. You belong—just as God created you to be.