Born With a Rare Ear Difference, 10-Year-Old Eithan Has Spent Eight Years Traveling for Treatment

When Eithan was born in the Dominican Republic, his family learned that his left ear had developed differently from his right. He was diagnosed with Goldenhar syndrome, a rare congenital condition that can affect the development of a child’s face, skull and spine.

Now 10 years old, Eithan has spent eight years traveling with his mother, Maziel, to Boston, Massachusetts, for specialized reconstructive care at Shriners Children’s Boston. Their journey has involved multiple stages of treatment, a dedicated medical team and a mother determined to help her son feel confident about his appearance.

A Rare Condition That Affects Facial Development

Goldenhar syndrome is a congenital condition that can affect the development of structures on one or both sides of the face. Some children have differences involving their ears, jaw, cheekbones or spine. The specific features and medical needs vary from child to child.

In Eithan’s case, his left ear was significantly smaller than his right. Doctors described the ear difference as a type of microtia known as a cup ear deformity, which gives the outer ear a folded appearance.

Fortunately, Eithan’s hearing was not affected. His inner ear structures were intact, allowing the medical team to focus on reconstructing the outer ear and improving its shape and position.

A Family Searches for Specialized Care

Finding the right treatment was an important step for Eithan and his mother. After seeking help in their home country, Maziel learned about a foundation that could connect her family with specialized craniofacial care in the United States.

The foundation helped arrange Eithan’s evaluation at Shriners Children’s Boston. The hospital’s care management team then supported the family with travel arrangements and treatment scheduling.

Because the family lives far from Boston, each visit must be planned carefully. The medical team works to coordinate procedures and appointments so Eithan can receive appropriate care during their time away from home.

Reconstructing the Outer Ear Step by Step

Eithan’s treatment has followed a phased approach rather than relying on a single operation. His surgeon, Dr. Daniel Driscoll, specializes in facial reconstruction for children with congenital conditions and other complex needs.

Across a series of reconstructive surgeries, the team created a framework for Eithan’s left ear, refined the outer structure and used a skin graft behind the ear to help position it farther away from his head.

Each stage was planned to improve the ear’s shape and placement. This type of reconstruction requires careful assessment and patience, as the team works to achieve the best possible result for an individual child’s anatomy.

More Than Medical Appointments

Over the years, Eithan and his mother have developed a close relationship with the doctors, nurses and care managers who support them. Maziel says the team takes time to understand Eithan’s needs and helps make each visit manageable.

Their trips have also become opportunities to build friendships with other families receiving care. Although Eithan sometimes misses his family at home, he has grown fond of Boston, including its cold weather and snow.

His experience shows how specialized pediatric care can involve more than surgery alone. Travel support, clear communication and a welcoming environment can make a meaningful difference for families navigating long-term treatment.

Helping Eithan Grow With Confidence

Eithan’s journey is still ongoing, and his treatment has required multiple stages. His mother remains grateful for the care they have received and for the relationships they have built with the hospital team.

For Eithan, the goal is not simply to change the appearance of his ear. It is also to help him feel comfortable and confident as he grows up, meets new people and pursues the things he enjoys.

His story is a reminder that children born with visible differences deserve compassionate care and the chance to be seen for far more than their diagnosis. With his mother’s support and a team committed to his needs, Eithan continues to take each step of his journey forward.

Source: Shriners Children’s, “For Eithan, Personalized Care Is a 10 Out of 10 at Shriners Children’s Boston,” August 25, 2026.