When 7-year-old Peter’s ear fell off in class, his fellow first graders were surprised. But for Peter, it was just a typical day. Diagnosed with Goldenhar Spectrum, a disorder that causes abnormal development of the head and face, he was born at 30 weeks without his left ear and ear canal, and with an underdeveloped lower jaw, a cleft palate, a right single pelvic kidney and several other serious health conditions.
Peter is able to have some fun with his prosthetic ear by tricking his doctors at Children’s Hospital of Michigan into examining it. More than eight specialists at the hospital have worked together to perform his many reconstructive surgeries and provide follow-up care and therapy, including therapy that is helping him transition from a feeding tube to oral eating. Whether Peter is cheering on the Detroit Red Wings or running and playing at school, he’s teaching everyone around him not to be afraid to make friends with someone who looks different.
Listen to Peter and Dee Dee share how Medicaid played a vital role in their lives.
Leave a comment to cheer on Peter as he travels to Washington, DC to champion children's health issues.
