Abigail (Abbie) Wathen is a beautiful young girl who participates in Ballet, Tap, and Girl Scouts. She is also a fantastic swimmer and is learning to play the cello.
Nine years ago, Abbie was born minutes after her fraternal twin sister, Maggie [photo: left]. Although fraternal twins never look identical, Abbie was distinctively different from Maggie. Abbie was born with Microtia/Atresia and Hemifacial Microsomia.
Microtia is an ear deformity. Atresia means no ear canal. Microtia/Atresia usually occur together one in every 6,000-12,000 births. Some theories of its cause include decreased blood supply to the developing ear in-utero or environmental factors. No one is certain of the exact cause.
Click here to learn more.
Microtia/Atresia can cause problems with the child's self-esteem, so early intervention is highly recommended. Abbie has now entered the beginning stage of her school years and we all know how stressful that can be at times. Abbie's family would like to provide her with a prosthetic ear. Click here to learn more.
This is a common procedure for children with Microtia/Atresia. The cost for a rebuilt ear is approximately $8,000 and unfortunately is NOT COVERED by insurance, as it is deemed a "cosmetic procedure." The family has consulted with Anaplastologist Robert R. Barron (retired CIA disguise specialist who has appeared on Oprah).
Abbie's second developmental issue is her jaw, known as Hemifacial Microsomia, in which the lower half of one side of the face is underdeveloped and does not grow normally.
Click here to learn more.
To fix Abbie's jaw requires 3 to 4 surgeries, called "jaw distraction," that are done internally or externally. It is recommended between the ages of 10-12 and depends on the amount of jaw bone that has developed. Once again, insurance does not cover the entire costs and Abbie's family is hoping to raise money that will be solely used for the documented medical expenses of their treasured girl.
A FLUTMA custodial bank account has been set up for this purpose.
Abbie's parents, Greg and Mary, sister Maggie and little brother, Alden are grateful for any help you can provide.
Click here to ASSIST ABBIE
Back to Top
