When Ayla Summer Mucha was born in December 2021, her parents, Cristina Vercher and Blaize Mucha, were surprised to see a big smile on her tiny face. But what made Ayla’s smile truly unique was a rare condition called bilateral macrostomia, which affects the formation of the mouth.
Ayla’s parents were unaware of the condition until her birth, as ultrasounds had not detected any issues. The rare deformity, also known as a facial cleft, occurs when the corners of the mouth do not come together properly during fetal development. With only 14 documented cases, Ayla’s condition was a shock to both her parents and medical professionals.
The initial concern and worry gave way to love and acceptance as Ayla’s parents adjusted to her unique condition. However, they soon realized that Ayla’s condition would require special care, particularly when it came to eating and drinking. To raise awareness and educate themselves, the family turned to social media, sharing Ayla’s story and adorable smile with the world.
The response was overwhelming, with over 6.5 million people admiring Ayla’s smile on TikTok. The family received an outpouring of support and kindness, with many praising Ayla’s unique beauty and encouraging her parents to continue sharing their journey.
However, not all comments were positive. Despite facing negativity, Ayla’s mother, Cristina, chose to focus on the kindness and acceptance they received. She emphasized the importance of treating others with respect and compassion, regardless of their differences.
As Ayla grows and thrives, her family continues to share their experiences, spreading awareness and promoting acceptance of rare conditions. Through their journey, they hope to inspire others to embrace diversity and celebrate the unique qualities that make each person special.
