Give a smile

Even if you’re a bit self-conscious about having a ‘gummy’ smile – or teeth that aren’t perfectly white and straight – your smile is a gift that connects you instantly with friends and strangers.

It lightens their mood – and your own. Because smiling relaxes you, reduces stress and may even help you live longer!

But what if you were born with a cleft lip or palate?

When you’re little, you don’t really know you’re different from other kids.

But by the time you start school – or even earlier – you begin to notice the stares … the pointing fingers … whispers behind your back … unkind, mocking words and laugher. No one wants to be your friend.

Having a cleft condition might not take away a child’s
ability to smile. But it certainly takes away the reason.

John Kabare, who grew up in a small rural village, remembers feeling “ashamed” of his cleft lip. How terribly sad to be ashamed of something that isn’t your fault.

He spent his childhood hiding his mouth behind his hand. Always feeling embarrassed and left out. It wasn’t until he grew up and moved to Cape Town, that he heard about Operation Smile and finally got the surgery he needed.

Let’s make sure that no more children have to go through this – for want of an operation that can take as little as 45 minutes.

World Smile Day is a celebration of what’s possible when we act together. Every volunteer, partner and supporter plays a part in bringing smiles within reach.

Are you with us? Could you give R250 or R500 right now to help a child? Please use the form provided to make your contribution.

One thing’s for sure … just knowing that you’ve done something to help a child will make you smile.

Because, it feels so good to make someone smile! Not only the little one who benefits from your kindness. But their moms and dads too – many of whom travel vast distances and make huge sacrifices to get help for their child.

Thank you for caring enough to act.

Happy World Smile Day!