Christine had her first surgery when she was only a couple of months old. Now, well into adulthood, Christine has had over twenty surgeries for the bilateral cleft lip and palate that she was born with.

The physical difficulties were one thing, but the emotional and social fallout have caused the biggest scars. Christine spent many years feeling othered, and outcast. People refused to give her a chance, even when she was determined to prove herself.

But where others may have given up, Christine fought. She fought for herself and her position. She accomplished lifelong goals and worked to become the person she wanted to be.

These days, Christine is an advocate for the cleft lip and palate community, working with the nonprofit organization Smile Train to provide education and resources for all about cleft lip and palate.

📍 This episode was recorded in Gainesville, Florida.

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