This is one of the worst things we have to do …

Turn away children with operable cleft conditions – because it’s not safe for them to have surgery.

Not yet.

Every child brought to our surgical programmes must first pass a comprehensive health screening assessment. Sadly, during our recent Mpumalanga surgical programme, 11-month-old Naledi and toddler Minenhle were both found to be underweight.

Their little bodies simply weren’t strong enough for surgery.

Being underweight is all too common among babies born with a cleft lip and palate, because feeding them can be extremely difficult. They struggle to latch on and suck strongly enough to get sufficient nutrition.

Still, it was a heartbreaking moment for their mothers, who arrived that morning filled with hope that their little ones would get the help they need to live normal, healthy lives.

But, “not yet” does not mean “never.”

Operation Smile’s comprehensive approach to cleft care means we don’t just send a child away when surgery isn’t possible right away. We walk alongside the family to help them get their child to a healthy weight for surgery.

Please help us bridge the gap between “not yet” and “ready”. Your donation helps provide infant formula and nutritional supplements – plus transport to get moms and children to clinics and follow up health assessments.

Your support means Naledi, Minenhle, and children like them aren’t just turned away. They get the extra support they need to gain weight and improve their overall health. So that when they return to a future programme, they’ll be ready for the surgery that will change their lives.

Please be as generous as you can. Because sometimes, giving a new smile starts long before a child enters the operating room.