On this week’s episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we revisit the journey of Cassidy, who shares her experiences with her second child, Zach. Zach was born with a cleft lip and palate, which required multiple surgeries and hospital stays during his first year. This episode explores the emotional, physical, and practical challenges of managing such a condition, while also celebrating the resilience of both Zach and his family. The Emotional Journey of Cleft Lip and Palate Surgeries Cassidy discusses the emotional rollercoaster of having a child undergo surgery for cleft lip and palate. She reflects on the fear and anxiety that come with hospitalizations and the surgical process. Despite these difficulties, Cassidy highlights the relief and joy of seeing Zach’s transformation and recovery, while also acknowledging the feelings of loss over his pre-surgery appearance. Practical Tips for Parents Facing Surgery The episode offers practical advice for parents whose children are facing surgery. Cassidy emphasizes the importance of self-care during surgery, such as taking time to leave the hospital for a break rather than waiting anxiously. She also advises parents to familiarize themselves with hospital routines, like knowing where the parent rooms and facilities are, to reduce stress during long hospital stays. Managing the Aftermath of Surgery and Recovery Cassidy shares her experience with post-surgery recovery, including sleep disruptions and co-sleeping as a way to comfort Zach. She notes how hospitalizations can affect older siblings, too, and emphasizes the need for one-on-one time to reassure them. Cassidy reflects on how much easier the second surgery felt, thanks to lessons learned from the first one. Co-Sleeping and Forming New Habits A common concern for parents is creating long-term habits with co-sleeping or contact naps during recovery. Cassidy shares how she embraced these practices in the short term, trusting that Zach would naturally transition back to independent sleep—something that happened sooner than expected. This episode is a must-listen for parents dealing with cleft lip and palate or any form of early childhood surgery. Cassidy’s journey provides not only emotional support but also practical insights for navigating the challenges of surgery and recovery. Her positive outlook and tips for managing the stress of hospital stays will resonate with any parent going through a similar experience. Tune in to hear an inspiring story of resilience and the importance of finding comfort in each small victory.