Sports Illustrated finalist, model, brain-skull tumor patient, and grief advocate Victoria Vesce gives us a glimpse into her multi-faceted world. 
Everyone has a story. And philanthropist, model, and Sports Illustrated finalist, Victoria Vesce has one you will never forget. She’s pretty, sassy, college-educated, wise beyond her years…and she’s also an incredible role model and advocate. 

Follow Victoria on social media at: @victoriavesce

Sure, amazing women like this are a dime a dozen. What makes Victoria standout, you ask? You see, Victoria has battled both a brain-skull tumor and a carotid body tumor (paraganglioma) only to lose her beloved mother from COVID-19 in October 2021 and be faced with unimaginable grief. As a result of the radiation treatment Victoria is partially deaf in one ear and wears a hearing aid in her right ear.  Today, she is a grief advocate and mental health advocate; heavily involved with community service. Life is tough, but Victoria’s tougher. She opened up to American Teen about her health battles, her passions, and what keeps her going on the hard days.

Victoria, you are amazing. Tell us about your childhood and how you got into modeling?

I grew up in a small town on a farm. Modeling and all the glitz and glam wasn’t necessarily painted for my future. My mom, who’s always been my biggest supporter, really pushed me to go for my dreams. I told her I had always wanted to model and she always did my photography photos. Kids at school would make fun of that, and me, but it helped me develop and know I wanted to get into modeling. For that, I’m grateful. In addition, I had found a pageant (Miss USA system) and decided I wanted to compete at the ripe age of 18 years old. I’d never worn makeup or knew how to do my hair. After that, I was discovered and really got into the modeling scene. 

What advice do you have for teenagers interested in modeling or becoming an influencer?

You’ve just got to go for it. Post the video, take the photo. Get a little embarrassed and out of your comfort zone. If it doesn’t do well, keep posting, don’t let that upset you. Consistency and persistence is key. 

What advice do you have for teens struggling with their confidence and self-esteem?

I grew up extremely shy and not confident. My mom was the Southern Belle full of confidence always, and she really instilled that in me in a positive way. I was scared to always shine my light because I didn’t like facing potential haters. But let me tell you, people will just hate you for no reason and that’s not a reason not to shine. Honestly, over the years haters gave me the reason to shine even brighter. The only person that is stopping you is you! 

We’re sad to hear about your brain tumors. When were you diagnosed, and how are you feeling today?

I was diagnosed around 6 years ago! There were a lot of misdiagnoses before that, but being an advocate for myself really got me the scans I needed, and found out the root of the issue. I feel great. I still struggle some since it still lives inside of me. I only lost hearing in my right ear from that, but I have been doing better than ever! 

Losing your mother was understandably heartbreaking for you. What amazing life lessons and life legacy did you learn from your mom? In what ways was she your role model?

My mom was the greatest person on the planet…hands down. I am eternally blessed to have had her in my life for so long. She instilled in me grace and humbleness and my faith in God. She was, and still is, my role model. Her smile brightened up every room she was in. She made every person feel welcomed. Her funeral filled up the whole church, because of the impact she made on so many. 

Radiation treatment left you partially deaf and with a hearing aid. This is a lot to handle. How did you? 

At first it was so hard, it still gets frustrating even with a hearing aid. I have to explain to people I’m partially deaf, and they think I’m joking. I’m always having to explain the whole story, every time. I’m still getting used to it, but it is definitely a frustrating aspect. 

What messages do you want to share with teenagers about depression, anxiety, and grief?

There is so much to share…but you are not alone. Therapy is really such a powerful tool in navigating your depression, anxiety, and grief. For me, it helps knowing that others struggle with the same issue. Life can be hard to navigate, but you got this. It is a battle we face every day. The first step is recognizing what is going on, and then finding the help and support you need. 

Which charities are near and dear to your heart?

The National Brain Tumor Society is one that helped me along my journey with my tumor, and I am forever grateful for them! Volunteering makes me realize how blessed I truly am. Taking a step back from the glamor for a moment, and all the trivial problems, helps me realize that life is so much more than all of that!