Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in February 2018.
In the competitive world of television reporting, where one’s appearance often plays a pivotal role, being diagnosed with a condition like vitiligo could be perceived as a professional death sentence. However, for the resilient WJBK Fox 2 News anchor, Lee Thomas, it became a catalyst propelling him to even greater success.
Lee’s journey with vitiligo began at the age of 25 during a routine haircut in Kentucky. Initially dismissed as a barber’s error, it soon unfolded into a patch of light skin on his scalp. Despite concerns, Lee’s mother attributed it to stress, offering reassurance that quickly dissipated as more white patches surfaced on his hands and face.
Taking the reins of his destiny, Lee sought medical advice a year later while working as an entertainment feature reporter for WABC in New York City. The diagnosis: vitiligo, a condition with no cure, and a prognosis that his skin would undergo color changes. Faced with potential career turmoil, Lee momentarily grappled with alternatives, contemplating his communications degree’s versatility.
However, a reflection on the substantial support he received from mentors and educators throughout his journey steered him away from abandoning his dreams. From a junior high school teacher redirecting him to the drama and debate club to a college professor securing financial aid, Lee realized the investment people had made in his success.
Over the next few years, Lee skillfully concealed his condition with makeup, overcoming moments of self-doubt. His family, notably his sister, became pillars of support, advising him to focus on his work rather than harboring concerns about his changing skin color.
Embracing resilience, Lee’s career advanced, leading to a prominent role as an entertainment anchor and reporter at WJBK Fox 2 in Detroit. Despite initially concealing his vitiligo, the disease eventually manifested prominently on his hands, prompting Lee to make a significant decision.
In a bold move, Lee chose authenticity over concealment, ceasing to cover his hands. While he continues to use makeup on his face for practical reasons, Lee emphasizes that his work is about the stories, not his appearance.
Lee’s triumphant journey took an unexpected turn, transforming what could have been a career impediment into a springboard for success. Now, an international spokesperson for vitiligo, Lee actively engages in support groups in Detroit, inspiring individuals globally through his impactful story, shared both on television and in his 2007 memoir, “Turning White: A Memoir of Change.”
As Lee envisions a future where vitiligo is normalized, his personal odyssey has not only made him the man he desired to be but has also become a narrative that transcends the realm of reporting—a testament to the profound impact of resilience and authenticity.
Sources: Daily Mail
