Three babies are born with a cleft lip and/or palate every day in the UK, and they face a 20-year treatment pathway which can continue well into adulthood. Many clefts have to face up to a dozen surgeries before even becoming teenagers, and that can lead to feelings of isolation for many of us. The Cleft Lip & Palate Association (CLAPA) is here to make sure no one has to go through this alone, and I want to help them make that happen.

I was born with a unilateral cleft lip & palate, which meant for most of my life I have been in and out of hospital for countless treatments for my cleft. I have had upwards of 15 surgical procedures done to repair the area, treat related hearing loss and to just have a chance at being perceived as 'normal' amongst my peers.

Most of my surgeries have gone amazingly, but I've also had ones that have failed as I'm sure many others would relate to, and I remember how hopeless it felt when I discovered I needed another big surgery after already having that exact procedure. For months i was left with a constant fear that I would never get the chance to look and feel normal, as without that essential repair I would have been unable to finish my treatments.

Now I am coming up on 20, meaning my journey with my treatments has only just ended. Now when i think about my operations, it feels like it all flew by, but I remember just how much I struggled throughout my childhood because of my birth defect. I never want another child to have to go through that process alone, especially if they are having complications. That is why I'm here to represent CLAPA, an organisation focused on helping clefts who need it.

I am participating in UWCB Newcastle on November 30th, 2024, a sporting event aimed at raising funds for CLAPA. My goal is to raise at least £100 (and hopefully more) for this cause, so i can help my fellow clefts never feel alone. Your support will make a meaningful difference in ensuring that no one has to face this journey alone.

> I've already had to up my number on day one thanks to my amazing Gruncle, Nana and a good family friend. Thanks so much to yous x

I thank everyone who gave me their time of day and read my story. I hope you all have a wonderful day ❤️