Cloacal exstrophy is considered one of the most severe birth defects compatible with life. Only a few decades ago, most babies with this condition didn’t survive, and those who did were relegated to dismal existence. Today, infants born with the condition can lead normal, healthy, productive lives thanks to a series of surgeries that restore normal anatomy and function. Carter Cline is one of those children and the 100th patient to undergo surgery for cloacal exstrophy at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, which has performed more such procedures than any other hospital.