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Sarah says, "Sometimes I want to hide my face under a box."

A vulnerable but brave rendering from Sarah to you on living with a craniofacial condition

Hi friends,

Sarah asked me if we could “tell our Substack friends” about something that happened recently. Every time we click record on my phone, I have no idea what’s going to transpire. These are candid, spontaneous conversations that unfold organically, in the moment, and this is one way I can be a liaison—connecting Sarah to you and you to Sarah’s life and story.

I am so proud of her for bravely giving you a glimpse into her life and for the way she ends with, “You’re not alone. I’m here for you” after recounting a painful fear of hers: to be labeled ugly or to be rejected because of her appearance.

This collaboration between Sarah and me has become something far beyond what I could imagine—a gift to her, a gift to me, and a gift to you. Her counselor tells me this is boosting her self-confidence and building her social skills. And I can see that, as she gets older, it’s giving her agency over what she wants to be shared about her life and experiences publicly.

We hope this video touches your heart and inspires you today. Also, please feel free to leave Sarah an affirming comment. Your words often strengthen her when she’s having a tough time.

Please consider upgrading your subscription or adding a tip if you can. My writing supplements our family’s income in a small way, and your contribution means a great deal to all of us. Sarah and I have also discussed whether she’d like to send our paid subscribers a handwritten card in the mail that offers a personalized encouragement you can keep. (She’s still thinking about it, but if she chooses to do this, all current paid subscribers will receive a note from her, too.)

Thank you for your support and for showing up here with us. We appreciate you!

Your financial contribution helps offset the costs of ongoing medical care for our daughter Sarah that requires 20 hours of unpaid caregiving on my part. I want you to know how much your support means and how it helps our family.

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