Samuel – Liberia
October 7, 2009 by admin
Diagnosis: Crouzon Syndrome
Like any parent of a child with craniofacial differences, Samuel Urey’s mother has suffered for her child and longed for him to lead a normal, happy life. The problems Samuel would face for not looking like other children came home when he started school. She says:
“Like any parent, I was so excited to take my son to his first day of school. Unfortunately, it ended up being one of the worst days of my life. On that day, I realized that Samuel had a problem. Getting Samuel to school was a daily challenge because people waited for him in the market place, at their homes, and at school to stare, point, laugh at, and tease him.
“Samuel wore face caps for six years to reduce stares. I couldn’t fight, curse, or say anything on my son’s behalf. I was afraid he might end up being a bitter kid.”
In 2007, an American-trained craniofacial surgeon diagnosed Samuel with Crouzon syndrome. By that time, optic nerve pressure resulting from his condition was causing him to lose sight in his left eye. The mother’s Internet research led her to the New York University Medical Center (NYUMC) craniofacial team and to the WCF.
Samuel and his mother flew to New York City in April 2008, his round trip fare donated by Brussels Airlines and American Airlines. During his 8-month stay in the United States, Samuel underwent two major surgeries and distraction at NYUMC. The WCF paid for his stay at Ronald McDonald House, including meals and incidentals.
Samuel’s mother recently wrote the WCF to express her thanks. She said that Samuel, now 7, “goes to church, ice cream shops, supermarkets, and other places without being stared at.” “My dream”, she adds, “has come true.”
Samuel Post-Op (Photo credit Mary Spano, NYUMC medical photographer)
Samuel with Brussels Airlines flight attendants
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