 Hello, I'm Harry. I was born in 1994 with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. When I was 3 months old I had my lip repaired by a very nice surgeon called Mr Whitby, and when I was 8 months old I was already undergoing my second surgery to repair my palate. Since then, I have received numerous other fantastic treatments, including a bone graft, by a number of wonderful medical specialists who have my endless thanks and praise for their work.
I don't really notice that I have a cleft lip most of the time; it is only when I see another person with one that I realise 'Hey - I've got one of them'. I'm 15 this month and I go to St Nicholas School in Hartford, which is pretty cool. I love playing rugby and cricket and have also tried to play golf. I also like going out with friends and going to concerts. I'm seeing Muse at the end of the month and I can't wait!
I realise how much worse it is for others who have more severe cleft lips or for those who have no access to surgical treatments. I'm very grateful for the help I have received with mine. I am very impressed with the Healing Foundation's work and I think they are really doing a great job trying to find the genetic cause of the condition and to improve treatments for babies born with a cleft. |
