
For 47 years, I denied having a cleft and refused to talk about it with anyone.
Being born with a cleft lip and palate, I lacked confidence and over compensated by trying to be the best at everything else. I didn't feel like I knew who I was, so I tried to fit in everywhere else. I had incredible social anxiety and was always worried I would be rejected, so I did whatever I thought everyone would want me to do. I easily agreed with what the group wanted when it came to things like going out to dinner, what movie to see, etc., and I was always “tap dancing” as my therapist kindly put it.
I was so full of shame and self-loathing that I wanted to be ANYONE but me because I didn’t feel I liked who I was. I grew up thinking I was a monster that nobody else liked and it took me 47 years to realize that wasn’t true, and to work through my guilt and shame.
I hope that you have not experienced the self-loathing and shame that I have throughout my life. However, if you can relate to my story, it is my goal to support you in confidently figuring out who YOU are and what you want out of life. I want you to live a fulfilling life you can be proud of. You DESERVE just that. Together, we will take the next necessary steps to ensure that you have the confidence and skills to live the life you have always dreamed of.