Carlos: Rewriting the Story

Thirty years ago, finding a safe cleft surgery from a skilled surgeon in Bolivia was no easy feat. A first attempt to repair Carlos’ palate failed, leaving him with a distressingly large gap in the roof of his mouth.

Every few months, Nora and her son went from mission to mission looking for help. Carlos was invariably told that his case was too complicated. Meanwhile, eating was difficult. Everyone struggled to understand his speech, and he faced incessant bullying in school.

Years later, Nora found the Ayninakuna cleft care team; it took multiple surgeries, but eventually, his palate was closed! Speech therapy and consistent practice then improved his communication, while support groups helped Carlos grow confidence. Today, he studies law, plays the bass, and sings in a band.

No child should have to wait years to journey toward full rehabilitation. Dedicated local cleft professionals and families in places like Bolivia are helping to rewrite stories of agonizing exclusion— an inspiring chapter of Transforming Cleft has begun!