2025 Donor Tea Gathering – Because of You, Cleft Children See Hope
March 8, 2025, was more than just International Women’s Day. For the Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation (NCF), it was a truly special occasion—over a hundred donors from across Taiwan gathered in Taipei to a shared mission: spreading hope to children with cleft and craniofacial conditions.
In today’s digital world, where information is readily accessible online, it’s easy to learn about NCF’s services and the needs of cleft families. Yet we believe that real understanding comes through personal connection. That’s why, in late 2023, we held our very first Donor Tea Gathering to offer supporters a meaningful opportunity to engage closely with our mission. This year, we were honored and excited to host the second edition.
From Suffering to Strength: Witnessing the Power of Change
This year’s gathering welcomed 54 families and over 100 attendees, with some traveling long distances to show their heartfelt support.
The symbolic flower for this year’s event was the sunflower, representing courage and confidence. The event opened with an energetic dance performance by Xiao-Ruo, a young woman born with a cleft condition. Audiences were captivated both with her talent and her story.
Xiao-Ruo has blossomed into a confident young woman. She expressed deep gratitude to the NCF, sharing how her participation in the NCF’s activities throughout her childhood gave her hope especially when she met others facing even greater challenges.
Mr. Yang, a former patient turned donor, also shared his heartfelt journey. He recalled his struggles with speech growing up, but through perseverance, he overcame them. Now a practicing lawyer, he encourages children with cleft conditions to keep moving forward and never give up.
Mommy Mango’s Story: A Love That Continues
Among the most moving stories was that of Mommy Mango, a mother whose child was born with cleft conditions.
“During my pregnancy, an ultrasound showed my baby had a short jaw, an invisible stomach, and possibly esophageal atresia,” she recalled.
“The doctor asked me to seriously consider whether I wanted to keep the baby.”
Thankfully, she went home, searched online, and discovered the NCF. Inspired by the stories of children thriving despite craniofacial differences, she found the strength to continue her pregnancy.
Today, after several successful surgeries, Mommy Mango’s child has entered the speech development phase. Facing new challenges, Mommy Mango reminds herself and other craniofacial families:
“Trying doesn’t always guarantee success, but not trying guarantees failure. Believe in yourself—you can overcome anything.”
The event offered more than just inspiring stories. From panel discussions, short films to interactive activities, attendees experienced a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by cleft children. It also strengthened awareness of NCF’s mission: “Love yourself and respect every individual life.”
In today’s digital world, where information is readily accessible online, it’s easy to learn about NCF’s services and the needs of cleft families. Yet we believe that real understanding comes through personal connection. That’s why, in late 2023, we held our very first Donor Tea Gathering to offer supporters a meaningful opportunity to engage closely with our mission. This year, we were honored and excited to host the second edition.
From Suffering to Strength: Witnessing the Power of Change
This year’s gathering welcomed 54 families and over 100 attendees, with some traveling long distances to show their heartfelt support.
The symbolic flower for this year’s event was the sunflower, representing courage and confidence. The event opened with an energetic dance performance by Xiao-Ruo, a young woman born with a cleft condition. Audiences were captivated both with her talent and her story.
Xiao-Ruo has blossomed into a confident young woman. She expressed deep gratitude to the NCF, sharing how her participation in the NCF’s activities throughout her childhood gave her hope especially when she met others facing even greater challenges.
Mr. Yang, a former patient turned donor, also shared his heartfelt journey. He recalled his struggles with speech growing up, but through perseverance, he overcame them. Now a practicing lawyer, he encourages children with cleft conditions to keep moving forward and never give up.
Mommy Mango’s Story: A Love That Continues
Among the most moving stories was that of Mommy Mango, a mother whose child was born with cleft conditions.
“During my pregnancy, an ultrasound showed my baby had a short jaw, an invisible stomach, and possibly esophageal atresia,” she recalled.
“The doctor asked me to seriously consider whether I wanted to keep the baby.”
Thankfully, she went home, searched online, and discovered the NCF. Inspired by the stories of children thriving despite craniofacial differences, she found the strength to continue her pregnancy.
Today, after several successful surgeries, Mommy Mango’s child has entered the speech development phase. Facing new challenges, Mommy Mango reminds herself and other craniofacial families:
“Trying doesn’t always guarantee success, but not trying guarantees failure. Believe in yourself—you can overcome anything.”
The event offered more than just inspiring stories. From panel discussions, short films to interactive activities, attendees experienced a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by cleft children. It also strengthened awareness of NCF’s mission: “Love yourself and respect every individual life.”
