Mom Says She’s Not Ashamed For Her Baby’s Facial Disfigurement

Upon giving birth to a baby girl, Joyce and her partner James were filled with joy and excitement to welcome a new member to their family. But once the doctors rushed the newborn in the hospital’s special unit, they knew that there was something amiss.

Poppy exhibited complications similar to Treacher Collins Syndrome, a condition which affects the development of bones and other tissues of the face. The underdevelopment of the facial bones may affect the infant’s airway, and potentially cause life-threatening respiratory problems.

She already underwent surgery to help with her breathing and is still currently undergoing medical care to help her with other complications associated with her condition. Due to her apparent facial disfigurement, it is not uncommon for other people to stare. Joyce even recalls someone asking her what what wrong with her child.

Some parents may have feelings of shame and resentment but Joyce is able to see things in a different light. Despite her baby’s appearance and physical limitations, Joyce says she’s not ashamed of her. And in fact, Poppy is her source of joy. She is a wonderful child who makes her laugh everyday.

Joyce worries that her daughter would be picked on in the future for being “different.” She aims to raise Poppy in a loving environment that would allow her to be a good person and be headstrong. She would tell her daughter that having a bad personality is worse than having facial disfigurement.