When Jono Lancaster was born, his parents made the heart-wrenching decision not to take him home from the hospital. They were unable to love him because he was diagnosed with Treacher Collins syndrome – a rare disorder that affects the facial structure and hearing abilities. They feared the challenges and hardships that raising a child with this syndrome would bring.
Tragically, Jono was only a few days old when he was forsaken by the very people who should have loved him unconditionally.
But fate had other plans. Social services sought out a suitable family for Jono, and that’s when he crossed paths with Jean, an angel in human form. The moment she laid eyes on him, she knew he belonged with her. Not hesitating for a second, she asked, “When can I take him home?”
Jono’s inspiring story was shared with the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) Breakthrough Summit in 2015, capturing the attention of many.
“I was born with a genetic condition that affects my facial features. I have no cheekbones, and my eyes dip down,” he explained. “I love my little ears – they don’t get cold at night. But I do need hearing aids. I consider myself fortunate because more severely affected individuals require assistance with feeding and breathing. I’ve met children who have had over 70 surgeries to make their lives easier.”
Reflecting on Jean, the woman who provided him with a loving home, Jono fondly said, “Jean adopted me on May 18, 1990 – so I get two birthdays!” He even joked with other children that his mom chose him from all the babies in the hospital, while their parents were stuck with them.
Unfortunately, Jean’s attempts to contact Jono’s birth parents were met with rejection. They wanted nothing to do with him, not even a meeting.
Throughout his life, Jono, now 36, has faced countless instances of bullying due to his appearance.
“As a teenager, I started to question why I was different. This led to thoughts about my birth parents. Parents are meant to love you no matter what, even if you rob a bank. How could I ever have a family? Who would want me?” he shared. “I started to despise my own face. I avoided seeing my reflection, even in windows while walking down the street. I was ashamed of my appearance.”
But then, an encounter changed everything and helped him rediscover his self-esteem.
While working as a bartender, Jono endured stares and comments about his looks. One day, a tough-looking customer with bulging muscles entered the premises. Everyone was reluctant to serve him, except Jono. The man straightforwardly asked, “What’s up with your face?”
“I was born with Treacher Collins syndrome,” Jono replied. Without skipping a beat, the man said, “Alright.” Jono then revealed his hearing aids and shared, “I’m deaf.” The man jokingly responded, “Do they come with an off switch? I have a wife, and all she does is talk 24/7. If only I could silence her.”
In that moment, someone laughed with Jono instead of laughing at him. It reminded him to focus on the positive aspects of his life.
Today, Jono is in a loving relationship and works as a motivational speaker. He dedicates his time to support young children with the same syndrome, helping them accept and embrace themselves.
“So, what has changed?” he asked. “People are still the same. My parents still want nothing to do with me. What has changed is my attitude, and that’s incredibly powerful. Instead of allowing negativity to bring me down, I believe in myself. I wouldn’t change any of it. It was my attitude that held me back the most. With the right mindset, you can achieve anything.”
We are incredibly grateful that Jono has learned to love himself for who he is. His inspiring journey serves as a reminder to embrace our uniqueness and strive for self-acceptance.
Please share this remarkable story with your loved ones to spread the message of love and acceptance.
