Imagine choosing a festive gift that brings joy to a child every day for the rest of their life, Sarah
That's what happens when you give the gift of a smile to a child born with a cleft lip or palate.
You change their lives … and those of their families … forever. And when you change someone's life, your own life is also changed.
Little Nzulu was born last November with bilateral cleft lip and palate. That means both sides of his mouth are affected. Despite the shock of seeing their baby's condition, his parents, Sinazo and Thandisizwe, have so much love for their little boy!
But, sadly, love is not enough. Reconstructive surgery is hugely expensive and not readily available in Bizana, the small, rural town where the family lives.
Fortunately, our Patient Coordinator visited the town just after Nzulu was born. Sinazo was put in touch with our Operation Smile volunteer nurse, to assist with feeding.
And the little family was given the best possible news – that Operation Smile could provide free, safe surgery!
But of course, specialised cleft surgery is only free because wonderful, caring people partner with us to cover the cost.
… Dedicated medical professionals, who give freely of their time and skills … Hospitals that allow us to use their facilities over weekends …
… And kind people like you, who donate towards essential medical supplies and equipment.
This Christmas, please give joy. To yourself … to a loved one* … and to a child like Nzulu. Give the gift of a beautiful new smile that lasts forever.
Thank you for caring about children who might otherwise not have access to safe surgery.
Click here to watch a heartwarming video showing the work we do here at Operation Smile.
May you enjoy a happy and blessed festive season.
Sarah Scarth
Executive Director
Operation Smile South Africa
Cell: +27 (0) 83 271 3768