Elijah’s smile tells a story of hope

At 18 months old, Elijah, from Seminole, Alabama, is happy, busy and full of love. His family says he adores his big brothers, loves Mickey Mouse and keeps everyone smiling. He also loves showing off his new smile, and as a social little boy, he is not shy about sharing it with everyone he meets.

During National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month in July, Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart is honored to share an update on Elijah and the care his family first allowed us to help highlight more than a year ago.

Elijah was born at 33 weeks and spent his first 26 days in the NICU at Studer Family Children’s Hospital. He was also born with a cleft lip and palate, beginning a care path that would include specialized pediatric craniofacial care, multiple surgeries and ongoing support from his family and care team.

When his family first shared his story, Elijah had already shown incredible strength. Even as an infant, he was reaching new milestones and bringing joy to those around him. His family’s openness helped shine a light on the importance of compassionate, coordinated care for children with craniofacial conditions.

In February, Elijah successfully completed his third surgery at Studer Family Children’s Hospital and has continued to recover well. He is participating in feeding therapy through Studer Family Children’s Hospital and will begin speech therapy in the near future. His care team does not expect him to need another surgery until he is around age 5 or 6, unless concerns arise with eating or speech.

For Elijah’s family, having specialized pediatric care close to home has been meaningful throughout each stage of his care. It has helped them feel supported, informed and connected as Elijah continues reaching important milestones.

“We are incredibly grateful for the exceptional care Elijah has received from Dr. Wallender and the entire craniofacial team,” his family shared. “Their compassion, expertise and dedication have been such a blessing to our family. We continue to thank the Lord for His faithfulness every step of this journey and appreciate your continued prayers for Elijah as he reaches these important milestones.”

Through the collaboration between Studer Family Children’s Hospital and Nemours Children’s Health, families like Elijah’s are connected to specialized pediatric craniofacial care close to home.

For Elijah’s family, each milestone is worth celebrating. For his care team, his progress is a reminder of why specialized pediatric care matters.

At Studer Family Children’s Hospital, pediatric specialists work together to support children and families through complex care needs, including craniofacial conditions. That care includes treatment, surgery, education, therapy, emotional support and guidance for what may come next.

Elijah’s story continues to inspire everyone who has followed his progress. He has faced each step with courage, and his smile reflects the strength of a little boy surrounded by faith, family and compassionate care.

Learn more about pediatric craniofacial and specialty care at Studer Family Children’s Hospital.