Myah Hauxwell was born with microphthalmia, a condition that caused her eye to not develop fully in the womb, giving her the appearance of having no eye at all. Despite having a typical childhood, Myah has faced relentless teasing and bullying due to her different appearance. Her mother, Lauren Hauxwell, is determined to change that and is dedicated to helping her daughter achieve the “normal” appearance she desires.
Overcoming Medical Challenges
Myah has undergone numerous surgeries throughout her life in an effort to fit her with a prosthetic eye. At just three years old, she became the first person in the UK to have an eye created from her stomach fat. Now nine, Myah has endured 24 surgeries, each leaving her with scars and stitches. Her first prosthetic eye, fitted when she was one, caused her face to collapse due to its weight. The family is now fundraising for a bionic eye, available only in the US, which features a chip that reacts to sunlight, making the pupil move and dilate. Lauren expressed her desire to give Myah the best possible outcome after all she’s been through.
Building Confidence Through Soccer
Recently, Myah has found confidence through her newfound love for women’s soccer. Inspired by players like Jill Scott and Mary Earps, she joined her school soccer team. Lauren believes that the sport has significantly boosted Myah’s confidence, both on and off the pitch. Seeing her daughter actively participating and excelling in soccer brings Lauren immense joy, as Myah forgets all her stresses while playing. Although building confidence has been challenging due to bullying, soccer has provided a positive outlet for Myah.
Facing Public Scrutiny
Despite her growing confidence, Myah has struggled with public scrutiny and hateful comments from strangers. Initially unaware of people’s reactions, Myah found it increasingly difficult to be in public as she grew older and began to understand the negativity directed at her. Lauren and loved ones constantly reassured Myah of her beauty and worth, and the support from friends and family has been unwavering. Social media comments on Lauren’s posts frequently highlight Myah’s gorgeous appearance, offering further encouragement.
Advocating for Understanding
Lauren believes it is crucial for parents to teach their children how to approach and treat those who look different. She emphasizes that the world is not the same for everyone, and educating children about kindness and fairness is essential. While Myah continues to receive support from her family and community, Lauren’s advocacy for broader societal understanding remains a vital part of their journey.
Conclusion
Myah Hauxwell’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of support in overcoming adversity. With her mother’s unwavering dedication and the confidence she gains from soccer, Myah is learning to navigate a world that hasn’t always been kind to her. Their story underscores the importance of empathy, understanding, and the collective effort needed to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.
