Connecting with Others

At AboutFace we realize the importance of being able to connect individuals to each other for support and understanding. We connect people of all ages through a variety of networking programs. Peer-to-peer networking inspires individuals to pursue more information about themselves and others. Networking with someone who understands provides individuals and families with:

• A grounding experience that validates concerns and feelings
• An empowering strength to create confidence and self acceptance
• An outlet to reduce anxiety, fear and loneliness
• An opportunity to open doors to information and community access
• A “buddy” to have honest and open discussions
• A chance to share and relate medical information and experiences

New Parents

Contacting us immediately can provide great comfort in the early stages of learning and getting used to having a baby with a facial difference. You need information and support on issues such as: feeding, handling surgery appointments and first hand wisdom and experience from other parents regarding your child’s condition. To be able to meet and speak to another family who know exactly what you are feeling, thinking and are going through can make a world of difference for you and your child.

Adults with a Facial Difference

AboutFace offers two ways to get in touch with other adults. Our Adult Workshop Series is a great way to meet other adults who were either born with a facial difference or have acquired one, or you can contact AboutFace and be connected by phone and/or e-mail. Adults who are connected to others get information, emotional support and an understanding that can only come from someone who has walked in their shoes.

Teens

AboutFace actively works to provide teens with a facial difference the opportunity to connect with peers their own age. There is a bond that is forged between teens when they realize they are not the only one with a facial difference in their community. We currently connect teens by phone and/or e-mail and offer events throughout the year specifically for Teens. AboutFace requires parental consent before networking teens. Our goal is to create an environment where teens can meet others and discuss specific issues and life strategies associated with living with a facial difference.

We organize excursions and get togethers for Teens in the Greater Toronto Area. Please contact donnab@aboutfaceinternaitonal.org for upcoming events and details.

We hold Trailblazer Retreats for Teenagers in British Columbia and Ontario

We offer a Teen Tract at our National Conference held annually in October