UNDERSTAND AD | COLOR YOUR CONFIDENCE

For young people living with atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema, the quest for self-confidence can be a long and winding road. Some kids struggle to take care of their skin at sleepovers. Others have to explain it’s not contagious. Sometimes, it’s a struggle to be understood by doctors. And sometimes, hiding your skin becomes a given, just to avoid having to talk about it.

But there are bright spots, and inspiring stories, like those of the 4 subjects of these animated videos. We set out to create a coloring-book-style series that reflected the age of the subject, while telling the story in a way that was designed to engage and inspire audiences.

After conducting interviews, we moved into concept stage, devising a creative thematic for each of the videos, a kind of foil with which to tell the larger story. From there, scripts were created, voiceover sessions directed (by me), and we worked intimately with the animation studio to ensure every detail was perfect.

The result was a series of 3 different videos with unique concepts and stories that reflected the journeys of 4 people who had been affected by this chronic skin condition. There’s Kayce and Chayse, who find the tools to create a beautiful masterpiece of a life lived with eczema; Matt, who finds joy in playing hockey and finding his tribe—with the photos to prove it; and Ar, who struggles with being misunderstood but ultimately discovers a strong sense of community and belonging.

Together, these videos are displayed on UnderstandAD.com, Sanofi and Regeneron’s unbranded website designed to help provide education and resources for all people living with atopic dermatitis.