National Best Friend’s Day: Leah and Rosie’s Story
Sunday June 8 marks National Best Friend’s Day.
To celebrate, we’re sharing the story of two best friends who met at CLAPA’s Activity Weekends, for young people born with a cleft.
At CLAPA, we host various events to bring young people together to meet, share experiences, boost confidence, and make new friends.
Rosie’s story
Hi, I’m Rosie, and I was born with a cleft lip.
I’ve been attending Camp CLAPA Activity Weekends for three years now. At first, I felt out of my comfort zone – but as soon as I met everyone, I knew I wasn’t alone. Everyone is so kind and thoughtful, and they’ve been through the same journey as me.
I was nine when I went to my first camp and had lots of questions such as:
Why do I have a cleft? Why do I feel like an outsider? Why do people stare?
Camp CLAPA made me realise it was okay to ask these types of questions. People can, and will, ask [about your cleft] but you should not feel anxious or scared. It’s your story and, if you don’t want to share, you shouldn’t feel pressured to tell it.
The best part of attending Camp CLAPA is meeting so many new friends who understand my journey. I was nervous for the first camp I attended, but then I met Leah – a new best friend for life.
We bonded over our shared love of Stitch, and neither of us wanted to leave when our parents came to collect us. We’ve now been to three camps together, and it’s always the highlight of my year. I really hope we get to go again!
Leah’s story
When I signed up for Camp CLAPA I was worried, as I thought no one would want to be friends with me. As we got into our rooms, Rosie and I chose beds next to each other.
After that, we would talk late into the night and learn things about each other. We’d talk about our worries, or just chat as friends.
We formed an unbreakable bond – a forever friendship.
I’ve been to my third camp now, and every time I look forward to seeing her – it’s a forever friendship I’m glad I stumbled upon. And I really wholeheartedly thank CLAPA for everything, and making it possible.
Thank you
Thank you for sharing your story with us Rosie and Leah.
