Michele

My name is Michele Robertson, and I was born with Moebius Syndrome. For much of my life, I believed I was the only person in the world with this rare condition. I didn’t meet anyone else with Moebius Syndrome until I was 52 years old. Growing up without that connection was isolating, and it made every day experiences like dating especially challenging.

Despite these obstacles, I pushed forward. After high school, I was finally able to start dating, and in time I married, raised children, and now enjoy grandchildren. None of it was easy, but each step showed me the importance of resilience and determination.

One of the hardest parts of living with Moebius Syndrome is the way people perceive us. Too often, when others see someone with facial paralysis, they assume we are mentally challenged. Every day, people with Moebius have to prove their abilities, their intelligence, and their worth.

That is why Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day (January 24) is so important. It is a chance to raise awareness, reduce stigma around facial differences, and build greater understanding in our communities.

My message to others living with Moebius, and to anyone facing challenges, is this: Don’t let Moebius or anything else hold you back. Go for your dreams. Don’t ever quit trying. Never accept “no” for an answer. Reach for the stars!

The Voice of the Moebius Syndrome Community – mfoms.org