A Journey Marked by Strength and Surgeries
In the United States, around one in every 1,600 babies is born with both a cleft lip and a cleft palate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One young woman who has lived this reality with immense courage is Mia Robertson. Now 18, Mia has undergone 13 surgeries throughout her life—each one met with grace and determination. Her most recent procedure, which the family hopes will be her last, marks a significant milestone in a long medical journey.
What stands out is not just Mia’s resilience, but the positivity she maintains through every challenge. She has never allowed her condition to define her. Instead, she’s used it as a platform to uplift others. Her mission has always been bigger than herself: inspiring other children with similar conditions and letting them know they are not alone.
Creating Change Through the Mia Moo Fund
With the support of her family, Mia launched the Mia Moo Fund—an initiative built to raise awareness about cleft lip and palate and to help families facing similar struggles. The fund aims to provide financial support for children in the United States who need medical assistance. As Missy Robertson explained in an interview with The Christian Post, “One of the primary goals of the Mia Moo Fund is to increase awareness about the cleft lip and palate journey. Additionally, we aim to provide financial assistance to families for medical needs right here in America.”
As a writer, I find this aspect especially commendable. It’s one thing to face personal hardship, but it’s something entirely different—and much rarer—to turn that experience into a source of strength for others. The Robertsons didn’t just go through the storm; they made sure to build a bridge for others while navigating it.
A Father’s Pride and a Family’s Faith
Mia’s father, Jase Robertson, offered an update on her recovery through his podcast, Unashamed. His words were full of warmth and pride as he shared her progress: “She’s doing great. She’s turned a corner. Everything seems great, seems to be fine.” He also mentioned that although the surgery took longer than expected, Mia was back home and recovering well. “Thank you for your prayers for her and our family. She is a champion!”
Hearing a parent speak with such relief and gratitude resonates with any listener. As a parent myself, I can only imagine the emotional toll of watching your child endure so many procedures. Yet, the Robertsons’ story is also one of unwavering faith. Missy, in particular, often speaks about leaning on her faith when confronted with uncertainty. “There’s never a definitive answer other than ‘We just don’t know,’” she said, referencing the unpredictable nature of future surgeries. Now that Mia is 18, she’s taking the lead in her own care—a transition that, while natural, is still emotionally complex for any parent. “This reminds me to depend on the Lord and accept my lack of control,” Missy added.
Hope for the Future
Despite everything Mia has faced, she remains hopeful and focused on the road ahead. With maturity and optimism, she shared, “Hopefully, it’s the last time I’ll see my doctors in this setting! It has been a long road, but we are at the finish line.” Her words reflect not just relief but also a readiness to move forward. Her life has been shaped by adversity, but it’s clear she won’t be defined by it.
This kind of outlook is rare and inspiring. Many might feel burdened or bitter after years of medical appointments and surgeries. Instead, Mia is looking forward, hopeful and eager to begin a new chapter. Her positive attitude offers a message of encouragement—not just for those with medical conditions, but for anyone facing long-term challenges.
A Family Rooted in Love and Resilience
The Robertson family has known both loss and joy. In 2002, Missy experienced a miscarriage between eight and ten weeks into her second pregnancy. That experience brought both physical pain and emotional heartbreak. But not long after, they welcomed Mia into their lives—a blessing that followed deep sorrow.
Even now, the family continues to open their hearts. They are preparing to welcome a new child into their home, one whose biological mother is unable to provide care. It’s a reflection of who they are: people guided by love, faith, and a desire to serve.
As a reader and writer, I find stories like Mia’s to be deeply moving. They serve as powerful reminders that while life’s path is often unpredictable, strength, compassion, and community can help us navigate it. Mia’s journey is far from ordinary—it’s a story of courage, support, and above all, hope for what lies ahead.
Let us all wish Mia a full and speedy recovery, and may her story continue to inspire many across the nation.
