Brazil

Meet Our Patients: Santarem, Brazil

Wesilyn, Lorrane and Jhone’s three separate journeys to care converged at an Operation Smile Brazil surgical program in Santarem. Here are their stories.

Honduras

Through a Mother’s Eyes: Q&A With Ana

In this special Q&A with a patient’s parent, we hear what Zoe’s mom, Ana, experienced at every stage of her daughter’s cleft care journey.

United States

“Every little thing you do is making a difference”

By sharing his story, Willy Sikora creates a ripple effect that spreads determination and hope to others born with cleft conditions.

Philippines

Expanding Opportunities for Women in Medicine

During our fifth Women in Medicine surgical program, 60 volunteers came together and changed the lives of 55 patients in the same country where Operation Smile began 40 years ago.

Honduras

The Motivation That Moves Her: Q&A with Speech Pathologist Gloria Vilches

In this Q&A, Gloria Vilches explains why her work is vital for patients before and after cleft surgery as well as where her passion to serve others originated from while growing up.

Malawi

Carol’s Wish

In her free time between teaching and working toward completing her master’s degree, Carol Chigona serves as an Operation Smile Malawi volunteer. Her wish for children like herself is that they refuse to let anyone tell them that they deserve less out of life.

Bolivia

His Path of Hope: Q&A with Surgeon Dr. Carlos Dorado

In this Q&A with Dr. Carlos Dorado, we discovered which patient stories have impacted him most throughout his time with Operation Smile as well as why he believes people must actively work at creating more moments of kindness for the families he meets on our surgical programs.

Bolivia

A Grandmother’s Everlasting Love

Claudina knew that her 16-year-old daughter, Wara, had a high-risk pregnancy. But she never imagined the series of events that would ultimately unfold.

Guatemala

See This Mom Conquer Her Fears As She Seeks Help for Her Son

Sandy once feared the possibility of her son receiving surgery. But after connecting with Operation Smile, her perception changed. “I felt confident, welcomed by all. I trust you. I know he’s in excellent hands.”