A young woman from Los Angeles is choosing to embrace a rare facial condition rather than seeking surgical correction. Marion Karawia, 35, has lived with Marcus Gunn Syndrome (MGS) since childhood, a congenital disorder that causes her left eyelid to lift dramatically when she chews. Despite the challenges it presented, Marion has come to love this unique aspect of herself.
Marion’s journey began at the age of five when her parents noticed her eye bulging during meals. Following a visit to the doctor, she received a diagnosis of MGS, which is attributed to nerve rewiring affecting her eyelid movement. As she grew up, Marion struggled with her self-esteem, particularly during her teenage years and early adulthood. “It was tough to navigate,” she explained. “When I move my jaw, it looks like my eye is bulging, but it is just my eyelid moving dramatically.”
During her formative years, Marion often felt the need to hide her condition, especially on dates or when meeting new people. “I would try to avoid eating in front of others,” she shared. The emotional toll of MGS was significant, impacting her social life and overall confidence. “I always felt I was different,” she noted. Although bullying was not a major issue for her, the psychological effects of her condition were profound.
At one point, Marion considered surgery to correct the cosmetic aspect of her condition. However, she ultimately decided against it. “As it doesn’t cause any pain or affect my vision, I realised that I didn’t want to feel the need to ‘fix’ myself,” she remarked. “I have grown, I am who I am, and I love it.”
Marion’s life has taken a positive turn since meeting her husband, Karim Karawia, 34. In discussions about her condition, Karim has expressed that he never viewed it as a flaw. “I asked him, ‘Have you ever noticed?’ and he said, ‘Yes, but I never thought anything of it,'” Marion recounted.
To foster awareness and inspire others, Marion has begun sharing her story on social media through her account, @marionsworldd. “It’s crazy to think that something as simple as eating can have such an impact on people’s lives,” she stated. Her goal is to provide support to those who may feel embarrassed or insecure about MGS or any physical condition.
“I love my MGS; it is a part of me and it always will be,” she affirmed. Over the years, she has learned to accept her condition and encourages others to do the same. Marion’s message is clear: “You are seen, you are special, and you are loved.” By embracing her uniqueness, she hopes to help others find confidence in their own identities.
