The Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA) is the UK’s cleft lip and palate support charity. The charity brings together people affected by a cleft to help them connect with others who share their experiences, welcoming them into a supportive community for life.

CLAPA’s work to support children, adults and families affected by cleft in the UK relies on the generosity of donors.

Every smile tells a story – here is mine.....

I am Amelia. I am 10 years old and I was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. This means I had a cleft on both sides of my lip. When I was four months old, I had my first operation. I have had three operations in total all before I was one year old. The surgeon closed my cleft on both sides of my lip and in my palate.

For this years Cleft Lip and Palate awareness week I am asking everyone to 'Wear it Blue' on Friday 10th May to raise awareness in my community and to raise money to help other children born with a cleft like me. Whether you want to wear a blue accessory or completely dress in blue is up to you!

Please give what you can and wear it blue!

Thank you x