thriving teenager with cleft palate

[Hillary]

I wanted to write and share my expereinces with all those
anxious parents out there. I was born with an extremeley severe
cleft palate. I have been through eleven surgeries in sixteen
years and my speech is still unintelligible to many strangers who
come across me. Last year,as a freshman in high school, I had the
distinct pleasure of becoming the state champion in my event at
the state forensics meet. Yes, you read that right,a forensics
meet. I have been competing in forensics since the seventh grade.
I decided that I wasn't going to let my speech stand in the way
of something I wanted. It hasn't always been easy and people
haven't always been accepting,but overall it's been a rewarding
experience. I just want to let all those parents out there know
that there is hope for their children and there are no
limitations,so please,don't set them. Let your children tackle
any obstacle they want to. The experience is almost always
rewarding.

[Anonymous]

Just wanted to say congratulations on such a positive outlook
on life! I wish I was as optimistic as a teenager. Only at age 32
have I come to truly accept myself and decide that I do not have
to feel a certain way because of others. You are quite an
inspiration. You should share your gift of optimism with as many
cleft-affected people--they'd benefit soooo much! Thanks again
for sharing your story.