Alex – Cleft lip and palate
Alex was born with a unilateral cleft lip and palate and is currently studying for a degree in psychology. Alex has had ongoing treatment for her cleft palate including a bone graft operation. Alex enjoys fencing and enters competitive events, and she also plans to take a year out travelling.
Alex was born with a unilateral cleft lip and palate and is currently studying for a degree in psychology.
Alex was bullied by boys at her co-educational primary school so her parents moved her to an all-girls school where she joined her older sister. Alex was no longer bullied following her move to this school.
Alex had her lip repair as an infant and has had ongoing treatment for her cleft palate including a bone graft operation, and consequently Alex has taken time out of education for this treatment. Alex would often find herself explaining her absence from class to her friends and teachers, and this served to raise awareness amongst fellow pupils and teachers. Her experience as someone born with a cleft prompted Alex to research the psychological aspects of cleft for a school project. Alex also has an informal involvement in the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA) youth council and draws on her personal experiences to help other young people affected by cleft issues.
Alex is awaiting further surgery to improve her jaw alignment which she will undergo before travelling after the completion of her degree.