Real-Life Stories

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

Recent Stories

Read the latest stories from Operation Smile.

Guatemala

Dayana’s Next Chapter: From Cleft Surgery to Dreams of Becoming a Doctor

After waiting 11 years for cleft surgery, Dayana is attending school for the first time and beginning to imagine a future in medicine.

A family in Madagascar sit inside a house with brown walls. An elderly man from Madagascar smiles at the camera, to his right are three young children and behind him stand two young adults laughing and smiling.

Global

Why Research Matters: New Clues About Cleft Development

Building on genetic research with families in Madagascar, an international team of researchers has identified new evidence about how multiple genes may work together to influence cleft development.

Global

Making a Difference Together: 6 Things That Make Us Smile

This World Smile Day, we’re celebrating the people, moments and connections that help bring care closer to home and make more smiles within reach.

A healthcare worker in Kenya, wearing colorful scrubs and a surgical hairnet and facemask, leans over to check on an infant resting in its mother's arms while she sits on a chair.

Africa

Bringing Cleft Care Closer to Home in Mombasa Through Stronger Local Health Systems

In Kenya, distance, financial barriers, and limited access to specialized healthcare can make it difficult for families to receive the cleft care they need. Operation Smile is working to strengthen local health systems so more families can access care closer to home.

Nancy stands at the front of a classroom smiling and clasping her hands in front of a group of men and women in Kenya who are seated watching her presentation. Some of the listeners are holding infants in their arms or laps. The listeners are talking to each other as well, suggesting an energetic discussion among the group.

Africa

The Power of Listening: Meet a Volunteer Supporting Families in Kenya

For nearly 20 years, Operation Smile volunteer Nancy Ngetha has supported patients and families through the emotional and social challenges that can accompany cleft care. By listening, answering questions and creating a safe space, she helps families feel seen and supported.

Sitting in her father's lap, Isis reaches for her mother Erica, who sits beside her listening to a healthcare provider. They are seated indoors with bright light from a window behind them.

Brazil

A Mother’s Determination: Finding a Path to Cleft Care

When Erica learned that her daughter, Isis, was born with a cleft lip and palate, she felt overwhelmed by uncertainty and faced many questions about her daughter’s future. Determined to find the right care for Isis, Erica searched for answers and eventually discovered Operation Smile in Mossoró, Brazil.