Katie Piper has marked the 10th anniversary of her horrific acid attack by bravely revealing she now sees her scars as sign of “strength”.
Katie was just 24 years old when an ex-boyfriend arranged for sulphuric acid to be thrown in her face as she walked down the road in London, leaving her blind in one eye and with terrible burns.
During the past decade, Katie has undergone countless operations to help treat her injuries and managed to forge a successful career as TV presenter and author.
Katie has also launched her own charity, The Katie Piper Foundation, which helps people suffering from burns and scars.
It has now been 10 years to the day since the horrendous attack and, showing just how far she has come, Katie has shared a poignant photograph and message on Instagram.
Read more: Katie Piper explains acid attack scars to three-year-old daughter
The picture shows the inspirational star, who is now married with two daughters, applying red lipstick in the mirror at home. Writing alongside it, she urged her army of followers to “never allow anyone to control or attempt to silence” them.
Katie said: “10 years ago to the day today, I found it hard to dig deep, believe and trust in when people would say ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’…
“Now I look in the mirror and see the hardest thing I’ve ever had to go through, it is now my strength, scars maybe be permanent but I am who I am today, take back the power and live your best life…
“Never allow anyone to control or attempt to silence you. #acidattacks #survivor #10years #burns#scars #recovery #confidencethesecret#thingsgetbetter.”
Since sharing her message, Katie has been inundated with messages of support. One fan replied: “You have raised awareness all over the world, what a brave woman you are. Your children will be very proud of having you as their mummy xx.”
Another added: “10 years ago? Wow Katie, you’ve come along so far since the attack, and remained so strong. You should be so proud of yourself! Xx.”
Katie’s ex-boyfriend, martial arts enthusiast Daniel Lynch, is currently serving two life sentences – with a minimum of 16 years – for arranging the acid attack. Stefan Sylvestre, who carried it out, was handed a life sentence with a minimum of 12 years.
Read more: Katie Piper praised by fans for sharing HONEST photo of her post-baby body