Goldenhar Syndrome: Shaikha’s Story
In the seventeen years of Shaikha’s life, she has spent an exceptional amount of time undergoing medical procedures. “By the age of 11, I already had 19 surgeries,” she explains. “I've had 25 surgeries in total.”
Cleft Lip and Palate Program Patient Stories
Read stories about patients who have been cared for by the Cleft Lip and Palate Program.
Appointments and referrals
Surgery for Cleft Lip and Palate: Dan’s Story
As an adopted toddler, Dan came from China to CHOP, where for the next 18 years the multidisciplinary cleft palate team provided peak care, including multiple surgeries.
Lambdoid Craniosynostosis: Nora’s Story
Nora had the least common type of fused skull seam. Her CHOP surgeon had all the tools in his toolbox for the many surgical ways to treat it.
Oral Teratoma and Cleft Palate: Stella’s Story
An oral tumor formed before birth caused Stella’s cleft palate, but CHOP surgeons expertly corrected both conditions. Now she’s babbling away.
Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Repair: Sophia’s Story
With two successful surgeries to repair her cleft lip and cleft palate, and a third a few years down the road, 2-year-old Sophia is thriving.