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Deanna's Story
Hey Everyone!
My name is Deanna (pronounced 'deena'), and I'm a 22 year old female from South Carolina. I was born with a Unilateral Cleft Lip & Palate. I found your website not too long ago, and as I was reading other stories/introductions, I figured I'd send mine in as well.
When I was born, the doctor told my mother that I was the worst case of CL&P he had ever seen. I had my first surgery when I was 5 weeks old, and I've had 16 other surgeries since. My last operation was on my "sweet 16" birthday! That was my "maxillofacial advancement". Most of my surgeries were successful; however, I do still have a tiny opening (about the size of tip of an ink pen) in the front center of my upper "gums", a slight scar on my lip, and my nose is still a bit crooked, but other than that...I'm just fine. The only thing I really don't like is the fact that I had sleep apnea (which was attributed to CL&P, according to the doctors). Because of the sleep apnea, even though I've had surgery to prevent me from losing my ability to breathe while sleeping, I snore. I have to admit that I'm more self-conscious about the snoring than I am about the scars (except when it comes to guys...).
I've met several people with cleft lip & palate in my lifetime, and they're usually really shy. I, on the other hand, have always been quite the opposite. Although, like most of you, I had been made fun of basically my entire life, I didn't let it hold me back. I've been in theater (school, church, and community), I play the flute (yes, the flute!), and I sing (in public, no less!). I would give anything to become an actress or a Christian singer.
I loved going to school. Even though I was ridiculed, I loved learning and making friends. The ridiculing lessened when I reached High School. I was involved in the drama department, symphonic band, marching band, and the colorguard. I can't say I was very popular though. I never had friends calling my house, or coming over. Whenever I went shopping, it was mostly with my Mom. I never dated during High School, though I did have a prom date. I have to admit that "guys" is the one area that I really feel self-conscious about my birth defect. And sometimes, when the right song comes on the radio...all about being loved by someone...I can get a bit depressed and feel like I will never be loved because of CL&P. But then, I think back on my life...and I realize that my life really hasn't been bad.
I believe that God makes things happen for a reason, even if we can't understand it. So, if for some reason, God wants me to live my life alone...that's what I'll do. I don't need a guy to validate who I am (no offense, guys!). I'm me...and I'm happy with that. :o)
Feel free to e-mail me: deanna@dreamr.net