2025 was a big year for Lisa Pellett. She turned 50 and decided the time was right to chase another milestone – completing her first marathon.
During the year, she also attended her first Operation Smile surgical programme, which she describes as ‘deeply moving’.
“I had the privilege of witnessing over 40 children receive life-changing surgery, thanks to an incredible team of volunteer doctors and nurses,” she says.
Raising funds for Operation Smile
It made sense to connect the experience to her marathon attempt, and use the opportunity to raise funds for Operation Smile – resulting in the #26Milesfor26Smiles Campaign.
Together with a group of 14 other participants, Lisa committed to running the Cape Town Marathon on 19 October to raise R143,000 to fund 26 surgeries for children born with cleft lips and palates through Operation Smile South Africa.
Lisa explains, “Every three minutes, a child is born with a cleft condition. Many struggle to eat, speak, or even breathe properly. But that’s not all. These children often face staring, teasing, and bullying, which can leave deep emotional scars.
“One simple surgery can change everything – giving a child not only the ability to eat and speak, but also the confidence to smile, connect, and thrive.
“By supporting #26Milesfor26Smiles, you’re not just helping me cross a finish line – you’re helping a child face the world with dignity and joy.”
Over R130 000 raised for cleft surgery
Although the Cape Town marathon was cancelled owing to adverse weather conditions, the #26Milesfor26Smiles team ran the route anyway, and raised just over R130 000 for cleft surgery through GivenGain.
Thank you #26Milesfor26Smiles for your commitment, your energy and your enthusiasm. We are so grateful to caring people like you, who make your sporting challenges count for so much more by raising funds to help kids with cleft.
