Gianluca Vacchi, aged 53, and his partner Sharon Fonseca, aged 25, joyfully welcomed their first daughter, Blu Jerusalema, on October 27, 2020.
The news of the media couple’s firstborn’s arrival stirred their followers, especially when they shared that she had been born with a genetic condition necessitating surgery, though she was not yet eligible for the procedure.
“Blu was born with a cleft palate. Our hearts extended not only to our daughter but also to the many families who’ve faced this situation, affecting 1 in every 700 babies,” Gianluca Vacchi revealed.
Upon learning of their baby’s diagnosis, Gianluca and Sharon embarked on a mission to support organizations like Operation Smile, aiding parents of similarly affected children without adequate resources.
Nearly 6 months after Blu’s birth, she finally underwent the corrective surgical procedure she needed. They patiently waited until she gained weight and reached a stage where anesthesia wouldn’t endanger her life.
Sharon Fonseca, via an Instagram post, informed her followers about her daughter’s successful surgery.
“Earlier this week, our daughter underwent cleft palate surgery. It’s been an emotionally challenging week for us, but the experience for her… witnessing your little one endure such a serious surgery truly shakes a parent’s world,” she began her message.
She acknowledged her daughter’s courage and expressed their pride in her. Additionally, she reiterated her solidarity with parents undergoing similar circumstances.
“Our angel keeps astounding us! She displayed remarkable bravery and sweetness throughout, and I’m proud to be her mother! With tearful eyes, I want to extend my sympathy to all parents navigating health experiences with their babies. May they always find protection. We’re back home now, filled with gratitude and blessings!” Sharon concluded.
Since learning of her daughter’s condition, Sharon has connected with parents in similar situations.
“When they informed me, my thoughts, emotions, and heart instantly went to Blu, as well as to all children who might share this condition but lack the fortunate resources we have,” the mother conveyed during her daughter’s birth.
Cleft palate arises when the tissue forming the mouth’s roof doesn’t fully fuse during gestation, usually between the sixth and ninth week of pregnancy. Some cases feature both front and back portions of the palate remaining open, while others involve only a portion.
Individuals born with this condition might experience feeding and speech difficulties, susceptibility to ear infections, hearing impairment, and dental problems.
“The surgery involves opening the palate and suturing the muscles that didn’t naturally close during pregnancy. Given Blu’s age of a few months, anesthesia is necessary. Doctors assured us that, once resolved, she’ll lead a completely normal life,” Gianluca recounted.
