World Journey of Hope
A record breaking mission that restored smiles, lives and hope for thousands of children and families.
Launched in February of 1999, Operation Smile’s World Journey of Hope was a journey like no other. Over the course of nine weeks, volunteer medical teams visited 18 countries including the United States, and conducted more than 5,000 reconstructive surgeries to correct cleft lips, palates and other facial deformities on children and young adults throughout the world.
It was uplifiting, groundbreaking - and ultimately record breaking too. In fact, the Guinness Book of World Records awarded Operation Smile this prize:
• Most Reconstructive Surgery by a Travelling Team
Operation Smile's 'World Journey of Hope '99' lasted from February 5 to April 14, 1999, during which time a team of medical volunteers visited 18 countries and treated 5,139 patients.
- Guinness Book of World Records
