About this episode

This episode features a discussion on the genetics of clefts with genetic counselor Robin Imagire, providing insights and support for cleft families.

In this deeply informative and compassionate episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Bethea sits down with longtime genetic counselor Robin Imagire to unpack one of the biggest questions cleft families ask: Why did this happen? With over 30 years of experience working alongside craniofacial teams, Robin shares honest insight into the complex world of cleft genetics, including what "multifactorial" really means, why most clefts don't have a clear-cut answer, and how environmental and genetic factors may work together. Laura also opens up about her daughter Giselle's cleft palate journey, her family's experience with genetic testing, and the emotional weight many parents carry while searching for answers. Together, they discuss: Why NIPT testing often doesn't detect clefts Common syndromes associated with cleft lip and palate Pierre Robin Sequence, Van der Woude syndrome, and 22q deletion The truth about the MTHFR gene and cleft rumors online Whether clefts can be prevented The emotional side of receiving a diagnosis as a parent This episode is filled with reassurance, practical education, and the reminder every cleft parent needs to hear: you are not alone, and this is not your…

People in this episode

Host: Laura Bethea

Guest: Robin Imagire

Topics covered

• cleft genetics
• parenting
• emotional support
• genetic testing
• cleft palate
• health education

Keywords

• cleft lip
• cleft palate
• genetic counseling
• NIPT testing
• MTHFR gene
• parenting support
• syndromes
• emotional impact

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: craniofacial teams, NIPT, MTHFR, Van der Woude syndrome, 22q deletion, Pierre Robin Sequence

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• Finding Healing Through Art: Amy Hofland on Cleft, Compassion, and Community · July 7, 2026 · 55 min
• The 100 Cleft Portrait Tour: Building Community Through Storytelling · June 30, 2026 · 32 min
• From Cleft Provider to Cleft Mom: Dr. Jordan Virden's Story · June 23, 2026 · 43 min
• Building Community Through Cleft Motherhood: A Greek Mom's Cleft Journey · June 9, 2026 · 1h 1m

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