Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in May 2022.

Meet Ayla Summer Mucha, the infant sensation taking TikTok by storm, turning heads and capturing hearts with her infectious “permanent smile.”

Born in December to parents Cristina Vercher, 21, and Blaize Mucha, 20, Ayla’s journey into the world took an unexpected turn when doctors revealed she had bilateral macrostomia, a rare condition where the corners of the mouth fail to fuse correctly during fetal development.

For the Mucha family in South Australia, this revelation was a shock, considering the rarity of this condition. A 2007 study in the Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal documented only 14 cases, making it an exceptionally uncommon occurrence. Even the medical professionals at Flinders Medical Centre were taken aback, with Ayla’s case being the first of its kind for them.

What intensified the surprise was that routine ultrasound scans had failed to detect the unusually large mouth opening, a revelation that only occurred after a C-section. This unforeseen revelation left Vercher in an overwhelmed state, making the cesarean experience more uncomfortable.

The first sighting of baby Ayla was an instant cause for concern. Her tiny form made the condition glaringly obvious to her parents, prompting hours of anxiety as they awaited a definitive diagnosis.

The situation was further compounded by a lack of information and support at the hospital, as they grappled with the challenges posed by this exceptionally rare condition.Ayla’s parents, initially plagued by thoughts of potential faults during pregnancy, found solace in the reassurances of medical professionals. Genetic testing eventually confirmed the diagnosis, presenting the family with the realities of macrostomia.Beyond being a cosmetic anomaly, macrostomia can impact infant functionality, particularly concerning latching and suckling. Consequently, surgery is often recommended to address these functional concerns.

Facing an uncertain road post-surgery, the Mucha family refused to be disheartened, turning to TikTok as a platform to raise awareness and seek support. Their account, @cristinakylievercher, has amassed over 118,000 followers, where they share endearing moments of Ayla donned in cute outfits, giggling, and smiling in typical baby fashion. One particularly heartwarming video, garnering 47.4 million views, showcases Ayla being dressed in a flowery dress, receiving an outpouring of love from viewers.While the internet can be a divided space, with some making unkind comments about Ayla’s appearance, the TikTok community has rallied to shut down negativity. Vercher, acknowledging the divisive nature of social media, hopes for kindness and acceptance, emphasizing that circumstances like these could happen to anyone.

Despite occasional negativity, the Mucha family remains grateful for the overwhelming love and support received, vowing to continue sharing their experiences and cherished memories with pride.