Representation matters, and allows members of the craniofacial community to feel seen, heard, and accepted.

To that end, we are pleased to share that on March 10th, 2023, Disney Junior released a new Firebuds episode entitled “Cleft Hood.”

“Cleft Hood” introduces Castor, a vehicle character born with a cleft hood. The episode was written by Emmy-Award winner Jeremy Shipp and inspired by his son, Henry, who was born with a cleft lip and palate. Henry also voices Castor in the episode.

Watch the episode here on Disney+

Want to learn more about the making of “Cleft Hood”? Fellow nonprofit RespectAbility hosted a special Q&A about this episode, featuring Jeremy Shipp and his son, Henry.

Check out the special Q&A session here!

“My son is very inspiring to me, and it’s not because of his condition,” said Jeremy. “He’s inspiring because of his attitude…  [he’s] a pretty positive kid. I wanted to do a story with a character like him.”

– Jeremy Shipp