MILES FOR SMILES

Diagnosis: Bilateral Cleft lip and Palate

Age at Treatment: 19 days, 7 months, 12 months and 10 years old

Current Age: 10 years old

 

Paige's story, as told by her father, Jeff Rooney:

 

Paige was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. As a result of CHKD’s ultrasound technology it was not a surprise and we were able to consult with the CHKD Craniofacial team before her birth.

 

At this point, Paige has had four surgeries, all at CHKD. The Craniofacial department is very progressive with their treatment and correction of cleft lip and palate conditions. While in many areas doctors wait until patients are 5 or 6 years old before starting the repair, Paige was able to have her cleft lip closed at just 19 days old. The doctors feel strongly that correcting it early provides for an easier recovery both physically and mentally.

 

Her latest surgery was in August of 2017. This procedure began the process of permanently closing the cleft palate via bone grafting from her skull to one side of the opening. An attempt to close the remaining open palate will likely take place later this year.

 

CHKD went the extra mile and set us up with a tour of the hospital before her latest surgery so we knew exactly what to expect the day of surgery. This helped ease our fears and allowed Paige to get an upfront look of what was to take place.

 

Paige will have a series of surgeries to correct her condition in the upcoming years and we couldn’t be in better hands. We are so fortunate to have such an amazing facility and staff in our own backyard.

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