The 100 Cleft Portrait Tour: Building Community Through Storytelling
About this episode
Laura Arroyo discusses the emotional realities of supporting cleft families with leaders in the cleft community and highlights the 100 Cleft Portrait Tour.
In this powerful and hope-filled episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura Arroyo sits down with three incredible leaders in the cleft and craniofacial community: Suzanne Santomieri, Stephanie Hassen, and Jessi Hill. Together, they discuss the emotional realities of supporting cleft families, the importance of community care, and the exciting launch of the 100 Cleft Portrait Tour. This moving conversation explores what it truly means to walk alongside cleft families — from prenatal diagnosis through surgeries, school years, and beyond. Suzanne and Stephanie also share their personal experiences as cleft moms, while Jessi offers insight into the deeply impactful role of a cleft care coordinator. The episode also highlights the inspiring work behind the 100 Cleft Portrait Tour, a nationwide art exhibit created by UK artist Katie Manning, featuring 100 portraits celebrating the beauty, resilience, and individuality of people born with clefts. Families attending the North Carolina stop can expect art, connection, storytelling, community activities, and the opportunity to meet other cleft families who truly understand the journey. In this episode, you'll hear about: What cleft care…
People in this episode
Host: Laura Arroyo
Guests: Suzanne Santomieri, Stephanie Hassen, Jessi Hill
Topics covered
- cleft care
- community support
- storytelling
- parenting
- art exhibit
- advocacy
Keywords
- cleft families
- community care
- emotional realities
- cleft advocacy
- peer support
- art exhibit
- storytelling
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: 100 Cleft Portrait Tour, Katie Manning
Places: North Carolina
More episodes of Our Forever Smiles with Laura Arroyo
- When You Know Something Isn't Right: A Mother's Journey Through Cleft Care | Kailey Kuck
- Born with a Cleft Palate: Learning to Speak Up and Thrive | Delaney Yard
- Finding Healing Through Art: Amy Hofland on Cleft, Compassion, and Community
- From Cleft Provider to Cleft Mom: Dr. Jordan Virden's Story
- Why Are Babies Born with Clefts? Genetic Counselor, Robin Imagire Answers
- Building Community Through Cleft Motherhood: A Greek Mom's Cleft Journey
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