LCN News
Laryngeal Cleft Awareness Day in Illinois
Another state has proclaimed a Laryngeal Cleft Awareness Day, thanks to the efforts of a mother-son duo.
LCN is pleased to announce that May 30, 2025, has been proclaimed Laryngeal Cleft Awareness Day in the state of Illinois. This is an important step to increasing awareness of this congenital birth defect, and we appreciate Gov. JB Pritzker for issuing this proclamation.
The proclamation was requested and facilitated by laryngeal cleft parent Carrita Flie, Founder and Executive Director of The Premium Promise Project. Carrita explains:
“Isaac was born at 26 weeks and experienced many health complications — one of those being a laryngeal cleft. Isaac was diagnosed with a level two cleft at 2 years old and had it repaired shortly after he was diagnosed. We pushed for testing and imaging after he was constantly struggling with swallowing and having severe choking episodes. It was also found that he experienced food aspiration. He is now 7 years old and doing amazing!
However, I’ve made it my mission to share Isaac’s story and bring awareness to some of his conditions because more awareness can lead to earlier diagnosing and ultimately better outcomes for our children. I found the Laryngeal Cleft Network on Instagram as I was looking for others to connect with who have had similar experiences as myself. I was honored to submit this proclamation in Illinois as it was already perfectly aligned with my personal mission.”
Thank you, Carrita and Isaac, for your efforts to raise awareness of laryngeal clefts. Our community appreciates you both!
Learn how to request a Laryngeal Cleft Awareness Day proclamation in your state: