A Patient Comes Full Circle: Meet Paula

Paula’s life story is a powerful example of resilience, gratitude, and giving back. Born with a cleft lip and palate, she transformed her experiences into a lifelong commitment to supporting others. 

Growing up, Paula’s early years were shaped by surgeries, speech therapy, and ongoing care. Her parents, who were just 19 and 20 when she was born, played a pivotal role in her development. Determined to give her every opportunity, they ensured she received prompt treatment, including cleft palate repair at just six months old to support normal speech development. They also sought out expert speech therapy and remained deeply committed to her care. 

Paula, now 73 years old, recalls that her parents raised her with strength and optimism. They never allowed her to feel limited by her condition. Instead, they encouraged independence and confidence. Moving frequently—from Philadelphia to Baltimore, Charlotte, and California—helped Paula develop adaptability and strong social skills. She learned early on how to connect with new people, an ability that would later shape both her career and volunteer work. 

Professionally, Paula began her career as a middle school teacher, a role she held for eight years. In her late 20s, she transitioned into human resources, recognizing that her communication and people skills were highly transferable. Over the next 28 years, she built a successful career. 

Her transition to retirement did not mean Paula was slowing down. After taking six months to recharge, Paula knew she wanted to use her skills in a meaningful way. Today, Paula volunteers at GBMC’s Randolph B. Capone Cleft Lip and Palate Program clinic, which meets on the first Thursday of every month. This program is unique in bringing together a team of specialists—many of whom volunteer their time—to provide comprehensive treatment and follow-up care for patients. Paula’s role is simple but impactful. She welcomes families, offers drinks, and creates a warm, reassuring environment. For children, she brings a bag of toys—always a highlight. She delights in watching children look through each item carefully before choosing one, helping to ease anxiety and make their visit more comfortable. 

For older children, Paula offers something even more meaningful: her story. She openly shares her experiences growing up with a cleft lip and palate, helping them see that their condition does not define their future. Her presence provides an example of confidence, success, and resilience. 

Paula is also an active member of the Cleft Lip and Palate Patient Family Advisory Council, a group of six individuals that includes fellow patients and parents. The council works to improve the patient and family experience—developing surveys, evaluating services, and planning events like the annual picnic and a pizza party. These efforts help foster a sense of community among families navigating similar journeys. 

In addition to volunteering her time, Paula is a committed donor. Her financial support reflects her belief in the importance of accessible, compassionate care. 

What drives Paula most is connection. She values the opportunity to engage with children and families, noting their strength, dedication, and love. She believes it’s vital for families to see that life with a cleft can be fulfilling and successful. 

Her message is simple but powerful: do not impose limitations on yourself. Be kind, be social, and put yourself out there. For Paula, giving back is not just rewarding: it’s a continuation of the encouragement she received from the very beginning.