Hope for one with Cleft lip foundation

09/06/2024

I had just one cleft surgeries at the age of 18 years old, but it still impacts me today.
So I wrote a fun little poem-
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I’m reminded when I breathe.
I’m reminded when I eat.
I’m reminded when I brush my teeth.
I’m reminded when I blow my nose.
I’m reminded when my ears frequently pop.
I’m reminded when I pay my doctor bills.
I’m reminded when my insurance claim is denied “for cosmetic only.”
I’m reminded when I speak.
I’m reminded when I clear my throat.
I’m reminded at each doctor visit.
I’m reminded at each therapy appointment.
I’m reminded when I meet new people.
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I would love the opportunity to show you that cleft affected individuals overcome challenges you may not know about. AND we’re resilient, courageous, and beautiful.
Follow along as I talk about some of my favorite things-fashion, family, and facial difference advocacy.
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Cleft and facial difference advocate friends-what else did I leave out in my poem?! Comment below! 🤗

29/05/2024

It's been awhile

06/02/2022

Cleft strong

One of the most cherished memories for a parent can be when their child says their name for the first time. But this milestone was slightly delayed for Laila and Ronald. Their daughters, Jheleen and Andrea, were born with that impacted their speech.

Working as a temporary roofer, Ronald's salary could support the family, but affording the cost of two surgeries was beyond his means. When seeking help for their daughters, Laila and Ronald were Operation Smile Philippines
ly informed that wouldn't be possible until the girls were 7 years old. This was far from the truth, as receiving cleft surgery earlier in life leads to greater overall health, improved speech development and the prevention of potential bullying. Disappointed with the news, Ronald and Laila clung to the hope that they could use the time to save up enough money.

Preparing for the long wait until surgery, they saw a flyer for Operation Smile Philippines. Laila and Ronald instantly felt a deep trust and admiration for the medical volunteers as they evaluated their daughters for surgery.

After surgery, the girls were given a mirror to see their new smiles. Andrea believed her reflection was Jheleen, and it took three days before she accepted that she was the little girl in the mirror.

As the family prepared to go home, Laila cried tears of joy as Andrea was able to pronounce “mama” properly for the first time.