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Cleft Heroes

We acknowledge the struggles of all laryngeal cleft heroes and are honored to share their faces and journeys. It's estimated a child is born with an airway cleft every one to two days in the United States alone.

LCN is launching later in 2024!

We are the first registered 501(c)(3) organization to serve the laryngeal cleft community.

Get on our mailing list to be notified when the full website is available!

What is a laryngeal cleft?

A laryngeal cleft is an abnormal opening deep in the throat that allows food and liquids to leak into the airway. It's difficult to diagnose and is usually seen through a special scope while the patient is asleep in the operating room.
 
Children born with this airway cleft may struggle to breathe, eat/drink, and speak. Depending on the cleft depth, symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can be fatal.

We can't do this alone and need your help.
Please consider donating to help cover our start-up costs.

LCN is committed to creating change through awareness,
advocacy, and collaboration. Our programs will focus on:

Information

Comprehensive information about laryngeal clefts is hard to find. Parents often do not fully understand their child's symptoms or diagnosis.

Quicker Diagnosis

Children born with a laryngeal cleft may suffer for weeks, months, years, and sometimes decades before they are diagnosed.

Family Resources

Families often struggle to find knowledgeable and experienced providers. This makes travel sometimes necessary to get a diagnosis and receive proper treatment. 

Provider Awareness

Medical providers may try to reassure parents that their child will "grow out" of their symptoms. This can delay diagnosis and cause a variety of health issues for patients.

Sharing Journeys

Having a child with a laryngeal cleft can be a confusing and isolating journey. 

The time has come. Please help us make a difference.

We need your help!

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