In many communities, unhelpful beliefs about cleft are burdensome for families. For parents, their minds are busied with questions of “why” this has happened to them and what caused this condition to affect their family. With the right support from a dedicated cleft team, families can overcome the noise and fears to help their children live full lives.
Lalaina and Ricardo know this experience all too well. Their second child, Miaro, was born with cleft lip and palate in Antananarivo, Madagascar. They were surprised and concerned – they had never heard of the condition before.
While their relatives rallied around them with support and understanding, their neighbours’ reactions were a different story. One even suggested that the cleft was a curse or punishment from a higher power. This experience is not uncommon in communities across Madagascar. As new parents, grappling with the worry of their baby’s health, this added layer caused them to feel isolated.
Despite these hurtful comments, Lalaina and Ricardo remained steadfast in their love and determination to find quality care for their son. They made the decision not to hide Miaro from the public eye. “We are proud to show him to everyone,” shares Lalaina.
Lalaina took their search for care online – she joined Facebook groups, and there it was, TF’s local partner, Clinique Santé Plus.
They learned that care would be available for them, free of cost, a relief, as Laliana worried how the family would access care otherwise. Even before they arrived at the clinic, TF provided Miaro’s family with crucial transportation assistance as they embarked on the 170-kilometer journey to Antsirabe.
It wasn’t long before Miaro was eligible for his initial cleft lip treatment surgery. The next step on his treatment plan to full rehabilitation is speech therapy – provided by professionals trained with TF’s support, as there is currently no formal training program available in Madagascar.
As Miaro began to heal, his parents noticed a shift within themselves and their community. They proudly showcase his progress and the resilience of their family.
Inspired by the care and support they received, Miaro’s parents hope he grows up to be a doctor one day.
Reflecting on their journey, Lalaina shares an important message for families of children with cleft: “Be courageous. Don’t worry about what people say. The essential thing is to focus on the well-being of your child.”
