Stories You Make Possible

Explore Operation Smile stories from around the world highlighting the courage of patients and their families, the dedication of our volunteers and staff, and the generosity of supporters like you.

Malawi

A Reflection of Hope

Even before surgery, Ziyalesi knew what her smile would look like if she wasn’t born with a cleft lip. All she needed to do was look at her twin sister.
Morocco

When All Seemed Lost, Hope for Janat Was Found

VIDEO: Once on the verge of starvation, Janat now has a brighter future thanks to life-saving dental care and the unwavering determination of her parents.
Paraguay

Amid Adversity, A Family’s Bravery Emerges

Despite feeling fear and worry after seeing their son for the first time, Ani and her husband, Roberto, were determined to change his life.
Colombia

A Historic Shipment is Saving Lives in Colombia

As food insecurity threatens the lives of our patients, Operation Smile teams rallied to send ready-to-use therapeutic food in a rare shipment to Colombia.
Morocco

Women in Medicine: Mentoring the Next Generation

VIDEO: During our first all-female mission, more than 50 volunteers engaged in training and mentorship workshops with leading medical professionals in their fields.
Global

Celebrating National Nutrition Month: Q&A with Operation Smile's Nutrition Council

To celebrate National Nutrition Month, our Nutrition Council joined forces to spread awareness on why breastfeeding and nutrition are vital to the health and well-being of children born with cleft conditions.
Global

Ensuring Healthier Lives: Live Event with Operation Smile's Nutrition Council

During this live event, our Nutrition Council of dietitians, speech therapists and pediatricians highlighted the role breastfeeding plays in the health of infants and the connection between nutritional support and speech development.
Ghana

Overcoming Nutritional Barriers to Surgery in Ghana

Ghanaian volunteer nutritionist Dede Kwadjo creates practical and effective solutions so patients suffering from malnutrition can receive surgery.
Global

Ensuring Healthier Lives Through Nutrition: Q&A with Charlotte Steppling

Hear from nutrition program manager, Charlotte Steppling, about why including nutritional support on our programs is saving patients' lives around the world.

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