Renee’s story is one of resilience, courage and the transformative power of specialized medical care. Born with frontonasal dysplasia and craniofacial dysostosis, Renee faced numerous challenges from the moment she entered the world.
Hope joined the Fresh Start program in November 2023, after her mother, Melva, discovered Fresh Start through her work at a pediatrician’s office in Laredo. Hope was born with congenital microcephaly, resulting in a smaller than normal head, which made her ears appear larger and protrude more prominently.
Samuel’s family came to Fresh Start in January 2023 seeking surgery for his craniofacial abnormalities. From birth, he faced numerous challenges, including difficulty breathing and swallowing, which required hospitalization and the placement of a G tube for nutrition.
Valery was born with a cleft lip and palate, a condition that requires extensive evaluations, medical exams and multiple reconstructive surgeries. This condition made it harder for Valery to eat, and if left unchecked, would lead to speech issues in the future.
Julian was born with a cleft lip and palate, a condition that left his family searching desperately for answers and solutions. His parents, overwhelmed with the complexities and uncertainties of his medical needs, faced the daunting reality that their son would require multiple surgeries over several years to correct his condition.
Allie’s remarkable journey embodies the immense impact of collective compassion and the incredible influence fostered by the generous support of donors. Her story stands as a testament to Fresh Start’s dedication to offering life-changing opportunities for children confronting significant challenges.
In the heart of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts’ mission lies the touching story of Aria, one of our youngest patients, who, at just one year old, faced multiple health challenges. A bilateral complex cleft lip and palate, coupled with the rare cranial anomaly anophthalmia, left her born with only one eye.
20-year-old Avante lives in Chicago and suffered from a genetic response to a bug bite called Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome. A condition that creates swelling in the face or scalp.
Katia was born with microtia coupled with Goldenhar Syndrome on the left side of her face. Microtia is a birth defect where the exterior part of the ear is underdeveloped.
Andrea was born with a hemangioma covering the entire right side of her face, commonly known as the port wine stain.