Chito Vera daughter: What is Moebius syndrome and how does it affect UFC star’s child?

Know all about Marlon 'Chito' Vera's daughter and the rare condition she suffers from.

Chito Vera daughter: What is Moebius syndrome and how does it affect UFC star’s child?

Marlon 'Chito' Vera's daughter's condition explained (via MMA Fighting)

Marlon “Chito” Vera prepares for his UFC 299 title showdown against Sean O’Malley. The bantamweight contender carries an even greater battle outside the octagon. This comes in the form of supporting the eldest daughter, Ana Paula. The eldest daughter of Chito Vera was born with Moebius syndrome. The story of Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera and his daughter has piqued the interest of the MMA community.

In 2011, Marlon Vera became a first-time parent. His wife, Maria Paulina Escobar, gave birth to their first child, named Ana Paula. They have two further children together. Vera’s son was born in 2015, and his second daughter in 2018.

YouTube video

Vera is a family man. His commitment to his family is reflected in how he fights in the octagon. His main motivation for fighting remains to provide for his family, especially Ana Paula. He has defeated the sports legends like Dominick Cruz and Frankie Edgar. Keep reading to learn more about Chito Vera’s daughter and how Moebius syndrome affects her.

FS Video

What is Moebius Syndrome?

Moebius syndrome is a rare neurological disorder characterized by facial paralysis. It affects the muscles that control facial expressions and eye movements. For children like Ana Paula, this means an inability to smile, frown, or make other expressions.

A deeper look into what Moebius Syndrome is.
A deeper look into what Moebius Syndrome is (via MMA Underground)

The condition stems from underdeveloped cranial nerves during prenatal development. While intellectual disabilities are uncommon, Moebius syndrome can also impact functions like breathing, swallowing, and eye movements. 

Moebius syndrome is a lifelong condition with no cure. Additionally, individuals with Moebius syndrome may face stigma and misunderstanding from others. Despite its rarity, speech therapy, physical therapy, and surgical procedures can all aid with symptom management and quality of life.

Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera’s Moebius Syndrome GoFundMe for his daughter’s procedure

Vera has been open about his daughter’s challenge since her 2011 birth. He established a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for a surgery aimed at helping Ana Paula smile. The MMA community rallied, donating nearly half the $43,500 goal.

Marlon Vera's Moebius Syndrome GoFundME
Marlon Vera’s Moebius Syndrome GoFundME (via Instagram)

The procedure was finally done in 2018. After the procedure, Vera shared the heartwarming news of success. Seeing his daughter’s first smile was “the best thing that’s ever happened” in his life. Now 13 years old, Ana Paula lives the best possible life with her family.

For the Ecuadorian fighter, his daughter’s perseverance provides profound motivation. Despite achieving greatness inside the UFC octagon, Chito Vera’s driving force has always been providing for his family, especially Ana Paula. He will set foot in the octagon this weekend with Ana Paula and his family as the driving factor behind him.

FAQs

Q: What is the age of Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera’s daughter?

A: Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera’s daughter’s age is 13 years.

Q: What does Chito Vera’s daughter suffer from?

A: Chito Vera’s daughter suffers from a rare syndrome called Moebius syndrome.

Q: Is there any cure for Moebius syndrome?

A: Moebius syndrome is a lifelong syndrome. However, it can be managed.

In case you missed it: