It’s now a year since he received his life-changing surgery from Operation Smile – and the difference is quite remarkable.
On the left is the picture taken a year ago, just before he went into surgery. His eyes are so full of sadness and resignation. Now they sparkle with newfound joy and confidence.
Growing up with a cleft condition wasn’t easy for Zivezile. “I was bullied a lot,” he says. “Accepting my condition was hard, but I had to come to terms with it.”
When he learned about Operation Smile, Zivezile saw a chance to get the help he never thought possible. The surgery transformed more than his appearance—it boosted his confidence.
Five months after his cleft lip repair, Zivezile told our patient coordinator, Vuyo Somdaka: “People can no longer recognise me. I’m able to go anywhere without fear.”
We were able to see the transformation ourselves when Zivezile returned to our Surgical Programme in Mthatha last month.
During his post-op check-up, dentists fitted him with a special plate to cover his unrepaired cleft palate and improve his speech. The device, which also includes a false front tooth, will help improve his speech and further transform his life.
Zivezile couldn’t stop smiling. “Before surgery I had no job – only piece work. Now I have a permanent job. I’m so happy. And I have a girlfriend.”
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