“Children’s Craniofacial Association (CCA) is excited to be taking part again on September 18 for this year’s North Texas Giving Day.
“CCA is celebrating our 25th Anniversary of ’empowering and giving hope to individuals and families affected by facial differences.’ We envision a world where all people are accepted for who they are, not how they look. Founded in 1989 here in Dallas, Children’s Craniofacial Association is the premier national organization addressing the medical, financial, emotional, psychosocial and educational issues related to craniofacial conditions.
“There are well over 1,000 families in North Texas who are affected by facial differences and CCA stands ready to help with programs and services for the entire family and regardless of whether an affected individual is a child or adult. (Our name sprang from the fact that most conditions are present at birth and must be addressed during childhood).
“CCA children will average 25-40 surgeries before they reach adulthood. While CCA offers their families a multitude of services including financial assistance, a list of qualified medical care providers, education materials and much more, one of our less medicinal and wonderful events that Giving Day funds go to is our holiday party which we hold in conjunction with area hospitals and craniofacial team physicians. Last year over 500 families joined us out at South Fork Ranch in Parker, Texas, for crafts, cookies, an early stocking stuffer from Santa and the all-important photo on Santa’s lap.
“But, this isn’t just any kind of party. While some would think it’s an irritating task to have to stand in line at the mall for a photo on Santa’s lap, parents of children with facial differences, it’s also painful to watch the staring endured by their children if they try waiting in the mall lines. This is why the big ‘private’ party is such a welcome tradition instead for these families and over the years it has become extremely popular!
“We welcome newcomers to “Get Up and Give” this September 18th and to everyone who does, ‘Thank you!’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sk8V2VzrxqM”
-By Charlene Smith, Children’s Craniofacial Association Executive Director
* Graphic and photo provided by Children's Craniofacial Association