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Even in today’s world, where awareness is growing, people still often judge others based on appearance. I was reminded of this recently when I noticed how a man with tattoos and a hoodie was looked at suspiciously by police — proof that first impressions still heavily rely on looks.
For Jono Lancaster, this reality shaped much of his early life.
Born in England in 1985, Jono entered the world with Treacher Collins syndrome — a rare genetic condition that affects the shape of the head and face. Although his body was healthy, doctors told his parents he might never walk or speak. Overwhelmed and unable to accept his condition, they abandoned him just 36 hours after his birth.
Social services quickly stepped in and found him a foster caregiver — a woman named Jean. The moment she held baby Jono, she felt a deep connection and immediately asked the nurse when she could take him home. From that day forward, Jean raised him as her own, surrounding him with love and support.
Despite his warm home life, Jono faced constant challenges in the outside world. At school, children misunderstood his condition, believing they could “catch” it from him, and they often avoided or mocked him. Although Treacher Collins syndrome doesn’t affect intelligence, the prejudice he faced made him feel isolated.
“I used to hide my unhappiness from my mum,” Jono later shared. “She had already done so much for me.”
Jean never stopped trying to reconnect Jono with his birth parents, sending letters for years. When they were repeatedly returned, she took the step to officially adopt him on May 18, 1990 — a day Jono calls his “second birthday.”
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Jono described Jean as an “angel” — a single mother who fostered for over 30 years and gave her heart to countless children, but most of all, gave him a true family.
As a teenager, Jono struggled with self-image, turning to alcohol and rebellious behavior to distract from his appearance. But with Jean’s guidance, he gradually found a new path. Instead of hiding from the world, he decided to use his experiences to inspire others.
Now in his late thirties, Jono has dedicated his life to supporting people with Treacher Collins syndrome and working as a team leader for adults with autism. He speaks openly to parents, encouraging them to build bright futures for children with similar challenges.
“My birth parents still don’t want contact,” he says. “But what’s changed is my mindset. That’s the most powerful thing. I wouldn’t change any of it — my attitude was the real barrier. With the right attitude, you can achieve anything.”
