Little Faces, Big Hearts is a support group committed to connecting families and individuals affected by VCFS (Velocardiofacial Syndrome/ DiGeorge/22q11) and other genetic disorders. We would like to provide a network for any family or individual with special needs.

What is Velocardiofacial Syndrome?

Velocadiofacial Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by a deletion in the small part of the long arm chromosome 22. VCFS is also known as DiGeorge, Shprintzen Syndrome and 22q11 deletion. It is one of th most common genetic disorders and occurs in approximately 1 in every 2,000 births. While it is considered the most common genetic disorder it often goes undiagnosed. VCFS in itself has over 180 different characteristics associated with it, but not all characteristics are found in all children.

The most common conditions associated but not limited with VCFS:

• Palatal Issues/Cleft Palate
• Heart Defects
• Low Muscle Tone/Short Stature
• Developmental Delay
• Immunological Problems
• Hearing Loss
• Feeding Difficulities

Getting the Diagnosis

VCFS is diagnosed through administering a particular genetic test.The test is called a FISH molecular test that will give diagnosis by analysis of the chromosome 22. Other ways of getting a diagnosis varies depending on examinations of the doctor.

Treatment 

There is no initial cure for VCFS. Each individual is affected uniquely by this syndrome and therefore; have unique medical needs. While VCFS is not curable it is managed by different medical specialists.

Come Join Our Group and Support VCFS!

'Be honest with Me, you're worried about these times of uncertainty and you feel as if you are in sinking sand, but you can be certain of Me, for I am the Rock that you can stand on' (Romans 9:33)                  

Ryan & Jenny Dempster Foundation Awareness Tour 2011 ( My daughters Briley & Lily)

Awareness Walk 2011