Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in January 2017.
A Difficult Diagnosis
At 24 weeks pregnant, Sara Heller learned through an ultrasound that her son had a cleft lip and palate. The news devastated her and her partner, Chris Eidam.
Choosing Pride Over Fear
After the initial shock faded, the couple embraced their baby’s uniqueness. They named him Brody and chose to flood social media with his photos to raise awareness.
“It’s OK to be proud of your baby no matter the circumstances,” Heller told TODAY.com. She explained that they wanted to change how people viewed ultrasound and newborn photos while promoting understanding of cleft conditions.
Facing Cruel Comments
However, they knew online criticism would come. A few days before New Year’s, someone asked on Instagram, “What’s wrong with his face?”
Heller refused to respond with anger. Instead, she educated the commenter, saying she wanted Brody to grow up advocating for children with cleft conditions who don’t yet have a voice.
Brody looking at the camera after a surgery to fix his cleft lip, Photo
An Unexpected Act of Kindness
Hours after that exchange, Heller went to dinner with friends. A waiter approached with what looked like a folded napkin. Inside was a check for $1,000 with a simple note: “For the beautiful baby.”
“Tears fell from my eyes immediately,” she said. The couple used the money to help cover Brody’s medical bills.
Brody’s Medical Journey
Brody soon underwent his second lip surgery. Eating remains difficult, and he still relies on a gastrointestinal tube for nutrition. Another surgery is planned between 9 months and a year old to repair his palate.
A Community’s Support
The couple says the experience restored their faith in humanity. People across the country reached out with prayers, encouragement, and offers of help.
“Being Brody’s parent has taught me that people care,” Heller said. “The cleft community is incredibly strong.”