Lucas

Lucas’s Story

Lucas Robles is 25 years old and lives in Concepción, Chile, a youthful university city in the south of the country. He lives with his parents and younger brother and describes his hometown as peaceful, vibrant, and full of life — a place that suits him well.

Lucas was diagnosed with Moebius syndrome just a few days after he was born. That early diagnosis made a significant difference for his family, allowing them to make informed decisions from the very beginning. Growing up, Lucas always knew he had Moebius syndrome. His family spoke openly with him about it, and it was never hidden or avoided.

It wasn’t until adolescence, however, that Lucas began to truly feel different from others. Like many people with Moebius syndrome, acceptance became a central challenge — not just being accepted by others, but learning how to accept himself. Lucas describes self-acceptance as an ongoing process, something that continues to evolve over a lifetime.

One of Lucas’s greatest challenges has been wanting to be valued for who he is, rather than being defined by a diagnosis. Over time, he has built confidence through real accomplishments: leading work teams, getting into college, forming strong friendships, and building a close circle of friends that remains important to him today.

One of the achievements he is most proud of is starting an account dedicated to Moebius syndrome in Chile. When Lucas realized there were few reliable sources of information available locally, he decided to create one himself. Through this effort, he has connected with families and individuals across the country, learning about their experiences and helping others feel less alone. That connection has brought him genuine happiness and purpose.

Today, Lucas is finishing college and enjoys the flexibility of shaping his days around what matters to him. He plays sports, runs, and enjoys soccer. Music is a constant presence in his life, and he values time spent laughing with friends as a way to break out of routine. Since his teenage years, Lucas has also been involved in volunteer work. Currently, he helps organize a year-long Christmas project that ensures gifts are delivered to children during the holidays — work that reflects his commitment to community and service.

What brings Lucas joy is the process of self-discovery. He feels he is in a stage of life where he is learning who he is, what he enjoys, and what he wants for his future. He also loves watching his favorite soccer team, Universidad Católica, enjoying a traditional Chilean “completo,” listening to music, and spending meaningful time with family and friends. As he prepares to enter the workforce, those moments of connection have become even more valuable.

Today, Lucas feels that many of the difficulties he once faced have eased. His speech has improved significantly, and communication is no longer a major barrier. The hardest moments now tend to come during first impressions, when people may judge him based on facial paralysis before getting to know him. Lucas has learned that while some people will always judge, others will value him for his personality — and those are the people worth keeping close.

Health-wise, Lucas is doing well and does not live with additional chronic conditions.

Lucas’s message to the world is simple and direct: look beyond the face and see the person. He encourages people not to judge what they don’t immediately understand and to take the time to truly get to know others — because they may find someone who adds meaning to their lives.

To the Moebius community, Lucas offers encouragement: don’t be afraid to show yourselves as you are. The people who matter will want to know you for who you are, not what you look like. Confidence and respect take time, but resilience matters. Keep going. Don’t give up.

Lucas also invites others to connect with him through his Instagram account, @moebius_chile, as he continues working to build awareness and connection within the Moebius community in Chile and beyond.