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- Hello everyone, my name is Barbara Roberts. I am the proud mom of an amazing and brave little girl named Hannah. When I was around 21 weeks pregnant with her I had a stroke. The right side of my brain was completely blocked with two blood clots. The pain was unbearable. I was immediately hospitalized to take control of the situation. Then I had a seizure. Terrified I was placed on the jet and flown to Montreal. Leaving my family behind. Not knowing if I would return or if the baby would survive either. After numerous treatments, tests and doctor appointments daily. Plus a new life style to follow while pregnant filled with rules for that time and later. Not to mention needing a detailed delivery plan in Rimouski in order for us to survive. Needless to say we survived! However Hannah was born with a cleft pallet. Completely inside her mouth. The top of inside her mouth was not closed, leaving her unable to nurse or drink at all. We were then shipped to the CHUL in Quebec. We remained there for a month. Learning how to feed her and adapting to another way of life. In order for Hannah to be able to drink, eat and talk she has under gone two surgeries to reconstruct the roof of mouth and pallet and countless trips to the CHUL. There is the possibility of a third surgery to lengthen her pallet and close a pin hole. We still need to travel there for follow ups with the ENT specialists team that we have. Within this month I should have the next appointment. Hannah is at the age now to have a complete follow up and decide on surgery or not. Sadly the last appointments had to be cancelled due to financial difficulties. The stroke has left me with some side effects that makes working a normal job extremely difficult. Unfortunately I have been refused social assistance and EI. My options are limited and with Hannah missing these appointments it makes life more stressful for her. She is scared to speak in front of people. Sometimes even timid to eat in front of people, as with the hole in her mouth it can case a nasal discharge of food. Causing her embarrassment. I realize that everyone has a difficulty and money is tight. Honestly I'm weary about doing this. But I was told asking for help does not make you weak it makes you stronger and why fight a battle alone if one can have help. As it takes strength and courage to ask for help. I'm asking for Hannah's benefit if anyone can help by donating any small amount. It will be used for gas to travel, hotels for lengthy stays and meals and or any other items or medications Hannah may need. In short it will allow me to travel with Hannah to the CHUL easier. As we all know medical trips are never pleasant and can be costly. Please no negativity or harsh comments. This situation is difficult enough. Hannah is only 5 and deserves every bit of happiness and success as the next person. No amount is too small and if you rather not donate that is your choice. Please share instead. Thank you all from the bottom of my soul for the help. No great deed goes unseen. Thank you all for your time.