Beth's Cleft Lip and Palate

Hi there, my name's Beth.

 

I was born with a unilateral cleft lip and palate.

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It took me a while to feel proud of saying that sentence, but I'm here now.

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I never wanted my cleft to define me or let it hold me back. I've always pushed myself to make sure I did everything I would do if I didn't have it.

 

From acting and public speaking to being Head Girl at school where I talked to audiences of over a thousand people. This doesn't mean to say I've found living with a cleft easy.

 

I've struggled through the operations, appointments, questions, comments, and suffered with low self-esteem and anxiety. However, I have always found ways of coping with these challenges and rising above them, often with the unwavering support of my family and friends.

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I don't like sugar-coating the truth, because, funnily enough, having a cleft is not all about smiles. However, I always strive to see the silver linings in life and find the positivity even in the most challenging of circumstances. Even though it's taken many years, I can now say I'm proud of my cleft.

 

Here's my story of my cleft, and my experience as a cleft patient. 

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Please note...​

Please be aware that as much as I've tried to understand the technical terms and procedures, I can’t always be completely medically correct. Please use websites like the NHS, CLAPA and Smile Train to find out more info about the technical side of cleft.