One Family’s Story

“I heard my doctor say ‘we have a problem,’” says Karen Frieri, describing the moment when she learned that her daughter, Briana, was born with a cleft lip and palate. “I was completely caught off guard. There was no history of cleft lip and palate in my family or my husband’s family.”

Ms. Frieri was anxious about her daughter’s future and had a difficult time when Briana had her first surgery at just 3 months of age. Since then, Briana has had three additional surgeries.

For Briana, living with the condition often was challenging. “Sometimes kids are mean,” Briana says. “I ignore them and they eventually stop.”

Briana has been receiving treatment for years at the Center for Craniofacial Disorders at The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore. The right medical treatment has not only made a tremendous difference in Briana’s appearance and her life, it has also given her mother some peace of mind.

“If I knew then what I know now, I don’t think I would have been as overwhelmed,” Ms. Frieri says. “Parents should know that there are surgeries available. I never thought she’d turn out as wonderful as she is, inside and out.”

Tune into “Keeping Kids Healthy” to learn the latest in children’s health from the experts. Broadcast on WNET/Channel 13, Fridays at 2:30 pm and Saturdays at 6:30 am, on WNJN Saturdays at 6:30 am and WLIW Saturdays at 7:30 am. To watch episodes of “Keeping Kids Healthy” online or to learn more, visit: www.keepingkidshealthy.org