FFC sponsored its third “Lessons Learned” for parents of children with Cleft lip/palate and facial differences.   The session was held on May 11, 2019 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Waltham.  There were 27 parents and caregivers in attendance.

Our guest speaker, Dr. Elisa Bronfman, a psychologist at Boston Children’s Hospital for the past twelve years, has a special interest in our patient population.  We were also pleased to have in attendance, Plastic Surgery’s new part-time social worker, Chelsea Reddin, MSW, LICSW, and the Child Life Specialist, Robyn Snyder.  Both Boston Children’s Hospital staff members described their roles and involvement with our patient population.

Healthy Parenting Children with a Facial Difference By Dr. Elisa Bronfman

Dr. Bronfman discussed many psycho-social issues that parents and children experience.  She pointed out that self-esteem and being bullied is part of every child’s development.  Her lecture can be seen on the FFC website under For Patients and Families/Videos.  Time was available for open discussion of questions or issues not covered in Dr. Bronfman’s lecture.  Executive VP, Ann-Marie Rogers, said, “This program is specifically designed to allow for a relaxed Q&A session. It’s so rewarding to see parents helping parents and being reminded that we are not alone in this journey.”

A special thanks to Priscilla Coffin, who made this program possible by her generous donation.  Prilla, a founding member of FFC, served as a Boston Children’s Hospital Volunteer in the role of Patient/Parent Advocate at the Cleft and Craniofacial Center. Her son, Benjamin, was cared for at Boston Children’s Hospital 40 years ago.

Thank you to Daniel Rogers for putting the video together.

Every participant went home with a Mother’s Day rose.