Katja

Everybody should be given the chance to express themselves as to how they truly are which is why I am delighted to be taking part in the Rare Project!

Katja is a kind and loving girl who absolutely adores music and can always be heard singing around the house.  She is an avid reader and spends a lot of time writing short stories herself.  She has an infectious warmth and happiness about her and loves being around her family and friends.

Katja was born with Moebius Syndrome, a rare congenital disease which causes paralysis in some of the cranial nerves; especially those that control the muscles of the face, eyes and ears.  This means that Katja is unable to smile, frown or blink and has some difficulties with her hearing.  She is also unable to move her eyes from left to right, which affects her co-ordination and balance, and she suffers from muscle weakness causing scoliosis of the spine. However, this does not stop her always trying her best at things and she recently gained her green belt in Karate and her Grade 2 Piano. 

Although she faces, and has faced, many challenges and prejudices in her life, Katja does not let this hold her back.  Those that take the time to look past her exterior will know that she is quietly strong and determined, and handles things with admirable dignity and without complaint (most of the time!).  Her family are extremely proud of her and the things that she has already achieved for herself.

If you would like to know more about Moebius Syndrome you can visit http://www.moebiusresearchtrust.org.

Find out about some of the other children taking part in the Rare Project by clicking here and if you would like to take part please contact us.

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