We love hearing how we make a difference...
  • After delivering a child with facial differences, I was so thrilled to find a place like MiCleft existed.  I have met some absolutely amazing people who have become life-long friends of mine.  We share a common bond, we know what it feels like to be faced with decisions that not all parents have to face, and we are never, ever, alone in our journey.  I have been blessed beyond measure by phenomenal parents of some of the most beautiful children I know. I am so grateful for my MiCleft family.  Janeen, Orrville
  • My husband was based overseas, and was unable to attend the birth of our daughter. This, and fact that her cleft came as a surprise, left me feeling completely overwhelmed and scared. I looked to other military wives for reassurance that things would work out, but they just didn't understand. To my delight, the team's social worker told me that there was a support network right here in Michigan! Being a part of MiCleft made those first weeks less stressful, and in time, gave me the ability to be the best advocate I can be for my child and for yours.  Dawn, Battle Creek
  • There are all sorts of advertisements online these days. Every time I sign onto the internet I see plastic surgeons and children with clefts in other countries. What I like about MiCleft is that most people are from Michigan and they're just like me. Crystal, Howard City
  • I couldn't stop children from teasing a boy that was born with a bilateral cleft lip.  I finally asked my neighbor whom I recalled saying that he had the same thing as a child, if he had tips on how to stop the bullying and help this boy enjoy school. He put me in touch with MiCleft, who were happy to offer a Diversity Acceptance Presentation. The children have fun learning that while there are a lot of things that make us similar, it's those differences that make each and every one of us uniquely special! I've had MiCleft present in two consecutive years, and believe the presentation should be a staple in every Kindergarten classroom! Diana Hausen, Elementary School Teacher

  • My adult son was born with a cleft lip and palate. Life would have been so much easier had MiCleft been available. This network is phenomenal!
    Carla, Brighton

  • When I found out at 17 weeks, that Thai would have a cleft, I went online and did some research - but it didn't compare to talking to an actual person and a whole network of "friends" who can all go thru it together. Thank you MiCleft! Maria, Lansing
  • My nine-year-old daughter was born with Pierre Robin Syndrome, Amniotic Band Syndrome, and birth anomalies, including missing her lower jaw and she is a triple amputee.  We had just changed Craniofacial Teams' and while looking for information, I found MiCleft.  I sent an email and received a response immediately!  A phone call from MiCleft the same day was so reassuring!  Teresa's son is also a patient of the same physicians that are now seeing my daughter.  Teresa offered a wealth of information, resources, encouragement and hope.  She had answers to many of my unanswered questions.  I now have a better feeling of trust in my decision, and about who will be taking care of my daughter...Thank You! Sue, Ruth

  • I'm a nurse, so you can imagine how I felt when I couldn't answer my daughter's questions. I visited many websites, but none compared to MiCleft! The experienced parents of this network have made such a difference in my family's life. I'm miles away, but I no longer feel out of the loop. Even my co-workers feel secure when telling new parents of babies with clefts, about MiCleft. We know that Mom and baby will be in great hands! Michele, London

  • We receive daily inquiries from parents asking for help and advice. The Michigan Cleft Network is offering invaluable resources for parents.  Michele S., The Smile Train
  • I think you've done a nice job on your website and MiCleft is a great tool for those in your area!  Lisa J ., Operation Smile
  • My Angel helped me from the moment I met her at clinic. She saw that I was having a problem feeding my newborn son and offered assistance.
    She gave me wonderful ideas and even sent me home with a different nipple to use. My son has been using the suggested nipples for 5 months! My Angel is eager to help and always makes time for me on the phone.  
    Susan, Monroe 

  • I have a friend with a 4 month old son, who was born with a cleft lip.  He just had his first surgery yesterday.  I think she would find it most helpful, to have an opportunity to get information and talk to other parents who have been going through the same things. I love the website and I commend you! Browsing Parent, Dearborn

  • We didn't know that our son would be born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. We wish we had known about MiCleft when he was born, which would have made those first months easier. It's so nice to have a group of people to talk to or soothe our nerves. MiCleft has made a difference in our lives! Doug and Pam, Kalamazoo

Updated 7/9/11

This website is powered by Spruz