Jack Marshall, a charity volunteer from Belton in North Lincolnshire who was born with a rare condition that prevents him from smiling or blinking, has written his debut book. Titled 'The Boy Who Can't Smile', the memoir offers an honest and often funny account of his experiences growing up different.
Living with Moebius Syndrome
Jack has Moebius Syndrome, a rare neurological condition that leaves people without facial nerves. He is also blind in one eye, has reduced hearing, and was born without part of the cerebellum, which controls balance and coordination. Despite these challenges, he regularly visits his sister in Staffordshire for respite breaks.
Defying Expectations
Jack said: “Growing up, I was told I’d never amount to anything. Doctors said I would never be able to walk or talk. I was written off by professionals, who couldn’t see past my disability. But what those people didn’t realise was that I had a family who believed in me, a stubborn streak, and a refusal to be defined by what I couldn’t do.”
After being told by a primary school headteacher that he could only attend part-time due to being unacademic, Jack went on to complete his school education, attend college, and earn a master's degree in criminology from university.
The Role of Family
Jack added: “Thankfully, my mum and my sister are very strong women, and have always been my biggest supporters and advocates. My mum took me out of that school, and found a place for me at another school, which was the making of me. I had lots of friends and finally felt accepted, and that the disability ‘label’ didn’t exist.”
Remarkable Achievements
Beyond academics, Jack has completed the National Three Peaks challenge and a skydive from 15,000 feet. He is an energetic campaigner for disabled rights and has raised vital funds for charity, earning a British Empire Medal.
Support from Caudwell Children
Jack benefited from specialist football equipment funded by Caudwell Children, a charity that provides practical and emotional support for disabled young people. The specialised powerchair allowed him to play competitive sports and travel across the country.
Jack continued: “Caudwell Children funded a Strike Force Football Powerchair, which has enabled me to pursue a hobby I really love. My disability can be a barrier when it comes to sport, but this is an activity that’s really inclusive. It’s opened so many doors for me; I’ve played competitively, made friends, and I’ve travelled to new parts of the country. It’s all thanks to Caudwell Children and the support I received.”
Giving Back
Now determined to give back, Jack volunteers regularly at the charity's activities club in Keele, which provides a fun and safe space for disabled and neurodivergent children aged eight to 18.
Kayleigh Williamson, children's activity programme manager at Caudwell Children, said: “At Caudwell Children we believe that the right equipment for disabled and neurodivergent children and young people not only supports development, it also encourages independence, confidence, and boosts self-esteem, opening up new possibilities. We were privileged to be able to support Jack, and extremely grateful that he’s now giving back to our cause as a brilliant volunteer at our Kids’ Activities Club. Jack’s memoir is an inspiring story of resilience, family, identity, and what can be achieved, with the right type of support. We’re so proud of him, and wish him all the best, as he reaches yet another impressive milestone.”
About the Charity
Caudwell Children has grown over the past 25 years into a leading national organisation dedicated to supporting families. All public donations directly fund services developed with input from young people. To find out more about Jack's book, visit thebookjackmarshallauthor.com. To donate, visit caudwellchildren.com/donate.
