A young woman bullied for a rare condition that makes it almost impossible for her to eat or breathe is finally set to get life-saving surgery – thanks to the kindness of strangers on TikTok.
Claudia Yasmín Poblete was born with Treacher Collins syndrome, a congenital disorder that affects the bones and tissues of the face.
“In my case, it caused a mandibular malformation and underdevelopment of my cheekbones,” the 28-year-old told Need To Know.
“Poor development of the mandibular branch on both sides of my face makes it difficult for me to breathe, chew, sleep, and speak.
“I also have hearing problems in one ear.”
Claudia’s childhood was “very difficult” as she faced cruel taunts and isolation.
She said: “I suffered a lot of bullying and discrimination because of my appearance.
“I was a very shy, withdrawn child and often chose to isolate myself.
“I also missed a lot of school because I was constantly attending medical check-ups and treatments, which affected my academic performance.”
The relentless bullying left her with severe depression, forcing her to drop out of school at 15.
But after two years at home, she began to accept her appearance and returned to education at 17.
Now working as an HR administrator, Claudia, from Santiago, Chile, has launched a TikTok and Instagram campaign to raise money for vital maxillofacial surgery.
She said: “I started a campaign on TikTok and Instagram to raise money for my surgery, which costs around 38,000,000 CLP (£29,356).
“I began with 7% saved on my own, and now we’ve reached 28% thanks to the generosity of so many people online.”
The surgery will move her jaw forward, open her airway, and improve her bite – offering her a real chance to breathe and eat normally for the first time.
She said: “This surgery is urgent because my breathing and feeding difficulties have been getting worse over time.”
Since sharing her story, Claudia has received both cruel comments and an outpouring of love.
She added: “I never imagined my story would reach so many people.
“I’ve received beautiful messages full of empathy and strength.
“It’s reminded me that I’m not alone, and that there are people who truly care about what I’m going through.”
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