Discover Maurice’s story in this moving video. Watch how this 10 year old boy from the DRC was given his life back, thanks to the intervention and collaboration of Operation Smile in the DRC and South Africa.
Maurice was only two years old when he developed a tumor on his nose. He underwent two surgeries in Kinshasa in 2016 and 2017. But, the tumor recurred and grew larger than ever. Owing to lack of finances, he was not able to receive any further treatment.
In 2019, Maurice’s case caught the attention of Operation Smile when his Mother brought him to a cleft surgical programme in the DRC. The organisation, along with volunteers, provided nutritional and medical support to prepare him for surgery through Operation Smile’s World Care Programme. South African specialist Cleft and Cranionfacial Surgeon, Prof Anil Madaree agreed to perform the surgery in South Africa. the surgery was delayed due to COVID-19.
Operation Smile facilitates application from the Minister of Health DRC
Unfortunately, the surgery was delayed owing to COVID-19. It wasn’t until 2022 that Operation Smile was able to facilitate an application from Minister of Health DRC to South African Minister of Health for Maurice to receive surgery in South Africa. Finally, in June 2023, with all the necessary permissions and visas in place, Maurice and his mother travelled to Durban, South Africa for the long awaited surgery. In a ten hour operation, the medical team led by Professor Anil Madaree successfully removed the tumor and reconstructed his face.
After recovering in the ICU, Maurice returned to the DRC in August 2023. Operation Smile continued to support him by securing housing, enrolling him in school, and helping his family establish a more stable future.
“I am moved with so many emotions as I am writing to you now. I am so thankful and speechless at the same time,” said Operation Smile DRC Programme Manager, Alex Cinamula.
Maurice after his surgery
“I have seen Maurice after his surgery in South Africa, and he is a completely changed person. He has his face back. While he was rejected and his mother had given up, Operation Smile gave them hope. A journey that started when he was only 3 years old, and look at him now 7 years later. His life has taken a turn now and his future and destiny are now assured.”
Deep and sincere thanks to everyone who has helped achieve this incredible transformation of Maurice’s life.
“We have given Maurice a gift he would had been very unlikely to receive, had it not been because of our caring ways, diverse talents, and desire to act on behalf of a child in need,” said Ruben Ayala.