A long-time friendship has led to new area for children with cleft lip and palate, and other craniofacial disorders at Barrow Neurological Institute.
“It’s big. It’s beautiful. It’s bright and clean,” says Patricia Glick, DMD, an orthodontist at the Barrow Children’s Cleft and Craniofacial Center, of the new Emily Davis Treatment Area. John Dawson, owner of the Scottsdale Plaza Resort, provided funding for the center in honor of his best friend Bob Marrs’ stepdaughter, Emily Davis.
Davis, now 24, was born with cleft lip and palate. The young special education teacher, who lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, began treatment when she was 12 days old and had her last craniofacial appointment last year. She has degrees in philosophy and communication and is working on a master’s degree in education.
“I couldn’t believe it,” says Davis of Dawson’s gift. “It was such a kind thing to do, not only for me but for my family and for all the kids who will come here.” Dawson and Marrs have known each other for 38 years. Dawson became acquainted with Davis after her mother, Jill, and Marrs wed. “She is a really remarkable young woman,” Dawson says. “I told her she’s been touched by an angel. She’s very special, an inspiration.”
Dawson decided to make a contribution to the renovation of the Barrow Children’s Cleft and Craniofacial Center after learning of the project from Robert Hopkins of Barrow Neurological Foundation. The gift was made through the 2009 Barrow Grand Ball.
At a ribbon-cutting for the Emily Davis Treatment Area, Dr. Glick told Davis, “I hope our simple words somehow convey our appreciation to you. Thank you for not just your financial support but also for your faith in us. We understand that this is a tremendous gift and that it comes with a tremendous responsibility.”
The Barrow Children’s Cleft and Craniofacial Center is the only comprehensive program of its kind in the Southwest. The center cares for about 6,400 children, ages zero-21, with patients coming from throughout Arizona, as well as parts of Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas.
For information on how you can contribute to Phase 2 of the craniofacial center renovation project, please contact Barrow Neurological Foundation at 602-406-3041.
