We are making this page to share the story of our daughter Ciara Gunning from Chicago, IL. Ciara is a beautiful little girl that was born with a Cleft Palate and alot of things changed for our family. She got rejected for medical insurance and it devastated our family. No family could ever be prepared to receive such notice. We were already so sad to learn about Ciara's Cleft Palate.
It was difficult to feed her and not cry. Milk would pour out of her nose, she would have breathing problems and development problems. Her hearing was in really bad shape and we had to talk to her loudy and using hand signals. As a mother I felt completely defeated.
The doctors visits were overwhelming and it was a very sad time in our lives. Between the denial of insurance, seeing Ciara struggle and the amounting medical bills. We just didn't know what to do anymore. Ciara since day she was born, has been resilient and just drives on. Regardless of everything, she smiles and gives us strength to continue.
Channel 2 CBS Chicago took interest in Ciara's story. The first interview aired on December 10, 2009 and the update story on Janurary 28, 2010. After the first interview, CFO of Shriners Hospital called Channel 2 to let us know about the mission of Shriners Hospital. He made sure that our little Ciara got attended and evaluated to make sure she was healthy. On January 04, 2010 Ciara was accepted by Shriners Hospital to receive all medical care she needs for her cleft palate and for free until the age of 21. On January 13, 2010 we had our first appointment at Shriners Hospital - Chicago and Ciara began her medical care. Medical care that before had been denied due to the medical insurance problems. Shriners Hospital has saved Ciara and our family. We love Shriners Hospital! They have made it possible for us to be able to have our first greatest Christmas ever! We are enjoying our holidays without any worries because we trust in Shriners Hospital...they rock! We know it because Ciara looks awesome, sings and her smile says it all.
We are extremely grateful for all the support and help that our family has received during this difficult time. We couldn't have gotten to this point without the love, care and help of others. We are very blessed for all the the wonderful support. You can find us on Facebook and feel free to contact us. Thank you for visiting Ciara's page!!!
"Mother Battles City To Cover Baby's Medical Bills"
http://cbs2chicago.com/video/?id=66502@wbbm.dayport.com
"Shriners Hospital Comes To Rescue Of Infant With Cleft Palate"
http://cbs2chicago.com/video/?id=66974@wbbm.dayport.com
