We had been waiting for nearly three years to adopt a child when we switched to the special needs program of the adoption agency. The special needs program sets the expectation of receiving a referral for a child with a correctable condition. Shortly after we made the switch, we received a referral from China for Zhao Fu Ying, soon to be known as Willow, an 18-month-old girl with a unilateral cleft lip and palate. By the time we received the referral, she already had her first surgical procedure to repair her lip and palate.

Once Willow was home, the adoption agency connected us with the ACPA Approved Team at UPMC Children’s Hospital. There, she had a few additional surgeries, including two bone graft procedures, to prepare her for orthodontics. She also attended speech therapy for several years until she had mastered the complete set of sounds she was capable of producing given the placement of her jaw. To date, everyone involved has been exceptional. Regardless of turnover or availability, the level of care provided by each department has been remarkably consistent. Next summer, Willow will complete her final surgery to advance her jaw and is considering giving her nose a little adjustment to finalize her journey.

Having surgeries, going through recovery, and missing out on school and sports can sometimes be difficult, but having a cleft has never held her back. Willow became interested in cheerleading when her daycare teacher, who was also a cheer coach, suggested she try it out.  Once she did, she never looked back.  She went from being on a half-year mini-prep team and building her skills to being on a senior level 4 team that competes at The Summit Championship in Orlando, FL. Willow is a determined 15-year-old and loves to perform at competitions and show her skills. She is thriving.

Brian & Jeanne

(Willow’s parents)

Discover Willow’s inspiring journey of resilience and confidence—watch her story now!

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