Real-Life Stories

These stories — from patients, health care providers, students and more — are made possible through the generous support from donors like you.

Recent Stories

Read the latest stories from Operation Smile.

Latin America and the Caribbean

Translating Care: Dominga’s Journey of Connection

Honduras

Ripple Effect: Angie’s Journey of Confidence, Care and Purpose

Meet a young Honduran woman who turned her cleft journey into a mission — supporting families, inspiring patients and pursuing a future in medicine.

Global

Four for Father’s Day: Remarkable Dads Whose Strength and Determination Helped the Children They Love

Africa

Going the Extra Mile without a Road

Operation Smile DRC’s Roaming Comprehensive Care Program brings care to patients despite challenging conditions.

Canada

Much More Than a Toy: Cleft Dolls Build Confidence, Hope and Life Skills

For young patients with cleft conditions and their families, interacting with dolls that look like them are invaluable tools on their health care journeys.

Africa

Leana’s Long Wait is Over

After years of waiting, five surgical programs and countless obstacles, Leana’s journey to a new smile is over.

Egypt

The Heart and Strength of Health Care Systems: Celebrating Our Remarkable Volunteer Nurses

In honor of International Nurses Day, we are turning the spotlight on four of the many nurses we work with, all who play a crucial role in their communities and the lives of all of Operation Smile’s patients and their families.

Global

In Honor of Mother’s Day: 5 Women Who Inspire Us with Their Resilience and Strength

Guatemala

Scenes from Guatemala

Seven days. Forty-seven new smiles. Five photos that capture an incredible week at San Benito Regional Hospital in Guatemala.