“Are you definitely sure you can help us?”

This was the first question Kgomotso’s mother asked us. She was afraid to get her hopes up because they’d been dashed so many times before. After six long years of trying to get help for her child, she had completely lost faith in the health system.

Her little boy was born in Vereeniging with a bilateral cleft. Again and again she took him to her local hospital. Each time he was put on a waiting list. And each time the surgery date arrived, it was cancelled.

Things went from bad to worse when Kgomotso started school. All the other kids picked on him and called him names because of his appearance.

But thanks to Operation Smile, and caring supporters like you, Kgomotso finally got the surgery he needed so badly. He no longer hangs his head and tries to hide. Now he smiles all the time and plays happily with the other kids.

But he is just one of many children born with cleft conditions who struggle to get help, owing to lack of skilled cleft surgeons and other health professionals in the public health sector.

Please will you help us change this, by making a contribution to help give more children beautiful new smiles? Unlike most other presents you give this festive season, the gift of a new smile lasts a lifetime. As little as R250 makes a difference.

All you have to do is fill in the form to donate now.

Or donate in lieu of a Christmas gift for a friend or business colleague who ‘has everything’. Add a special message and we’ll send them an e-card to let them know of your thoughtful gesture.

Thank you for caring about children who might otherwise not have access to safe surgery. May you enjoy a happy and blessed festive season.

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