Many of my students and parents may not be aware of my daughter's story, as I try to be careful not to cross business and personal lines at the studio, but I am feeling compelled to share for the sake of my daughter, Kalli. She has undergone one surgery already and has the second scheduled for December 9th for her to have a new smile.
     She was born at 24 weeks gestation weighing only one pound, five ounces and spent 123 days in the NICU. During her stay in the NICU, she suffered a stroke and lost all muscle tone in the left side of her face, leaving her with a one-sided smile.
     She has always asked why her smile was different and would she smile like us when she grows up, or why does her little brother have a big smile and she doesn't. It was heart-breaking to hear that she didn't like her smile and we didn't have a way to help.
     Last winter we were referred to a doctor in California who has helped other people with similar conditions as Kalli and we met with him via Skype in February. He was very optimistic that he could help Kalli and we started fundraising to cover the cost of the procedures, as insurance will not cover much of the expense. We are now in the second stage of fundraising as we prepare for surgery again and we are truly grateful for all of the support, prayers and donations! If you feel compelled to help- thank you very much -this is a gift that will last a lifetime!