Teri Brown Goodwin’s Story

“Perfectly Imperfect”

I’m Teri Brown Goodwin, and Orange, Texas has been my home for all of my 60 years. I was diagnosed with Moebius Syndrome almost immediately after birth. Living close to Texas Children’s Hospital was a blessing — my family was referred there right away, and we received the help we needed.

I’ve always lived with differences. The left side of my face is affected, I can’t fully close one eye, and I like to say I have “half a smile.” By the time I was about five, I knew I wasn’t like the other kids.

Growing up wasn’t easy. I remember the stares, the pointing, and the bullying. But I also remember something else — I persevered. I built a life full of love and meaning. I married a wonderful man, raised three children, and now I get to enjoy the joy of ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Along the way, I spent years working as a nurse assistant and an emergency medical technician. Those roles gave me the privilege of saving lives and, sometimes, helping families face death with dignity. Both my family and my work are accomplishments I hold closest to my heart.

These days, life looks different — and in many ways, sweeter. My husband and I are retired, and our time is spent traveling, helping our kids, and cheering on our grandkids at their events. One of my granddaughters has Down Syndrome, and she is the light of my life — a gift from God. Because of my journey with Moebius, I can deeply understand what she may face. Our bond is special, rooted in both love and empathy.

Of course, there are things that make me sad. I miss my mom dearly. And it breaks my heart to see the cruelty and tragedies in our world — wars, divisions, people hurting one another. Sometimes it feels overwhelming.

But I believe in hope.

We are all created equally. We all start out the same way — as an egg. Some of us are scrambled, some are fried, and some are over-easy. My point is simple: we are all different, but we are all valuable.

So dream big, my friends, and live your best life.

The Voice of the Moebius Syndrome Community – mfoms.org