Patient Stories

“Everyone who is a part of Fresh Start, in whatever capacity, are my heroes for making a difference in my life and in the lives of so many Fresh Start patients. Again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you so much.”

When Daniel was referred to Fresh Start, his parents were desperate for medical care for their son. He has a large mass on the side of his face which is interfering with his ability to eat and speak properly.

Audrey is an 11-year-old who was born with microtia (deformed or missing ear) in Oaxaca, Mexico. She became a Fresh Start patient in 2016 and has received two surgeries.

Jackline, a two-year-old, was born with a cleft lip and palate in Tanzania. In a developing country like Tanzania, a physical deformity makes life very difficult for young girls. They are often kept hidden in the home.

Jonathan is a very adventurous and energetic four-year-old born with Apert Syndrome. This condition causes craniofacial abnormalities characterized by an abnormal head shape, small upper jaw, a high-arched palate and fusion of the fingers and toes.

Georgina — a precious little three-year-old was referred to Fresh Start by a friend in Tijuana after doctors told her they were unable to help her. Georgina was born with double microtia and has vision and hearing issues.

Kassy, from the greater San Diego region, became a Fresh Start patient in 2012 at age 3. She was born with a giant hairy nevus which carries a 10% risk of becoming cancerous. Her procedures included the insertion of a tissue expander to create more skin to graft over the area.