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Stories You Make Possible

Stories You Make Possible

Explore Operation Smile stories from around the world highlighting the courage of patients and their families, the dedication of our volunteers and staff, and the generosity of supporters like you.

India
A mother and her child wait patiently at the shelter during a 2018 Operation Smile India surgical program in Durgapur. Photo: Jasmin Shah.

Operation Smile India Steps up to Help Hospitals Fight COVID-19: Q&A with Abhishek Sengupta

Operation Smile India Executive Director Abhishek Sengupta shares how his teams are combating the massive shortage of oxygen in the country.
Mozambique

After 48 Years, A New Future

Domingos carried the weight of living with an untreated cleft lip until he arrived at an Operation Smile medical mission.
United States
Photo courtesy of Robert Beinrauh.

From Mentee to Mentor: Q&A with Cleft Surgeon Dr. Robert Beinrauh

Hear from a volunteer surgeon whose love for his work is driven by the strength of the patients he meets.
Bolivia

A Family’s Journey Toward Healing

For Justina, the weeks following the birth of her daughter, Annika, were some of the most frightening moments of her life. Then, she heard about Operation Smile.
Rwanda

Today’s Training, Tomorrow’s Solutions

VIDEO: Operation Smile alleviates needless suffering by empowering Rwandan health care workers with training and education.
Madagascar

With Surgery, A Weight Was Lifted

Zafilahy was often called “Telo Moloha,” which translates to “three lips.” But he never let the harassment prevent him from living a life of happiness.
Guatemala

Scenes of Hope and Healing: Guatemala City Surgical Program

A passionate team of medical volunteers changed the lives of 15 patients during our three-day surgical program in Guatemala City.
Guatemala

A Link in the Chain: Q&A with Dentist Dr. Guillermo Cifuentes

Dr. Guillermo Cifuentes of Guatemala says it takes more than just skill and knowledge to be a good volunteer for Operation Smile. It takes heart.
United States

A Lifetime of Giving

The impact of Bob Scheel's generosity and devotion to improving access to care continues to change the lives of Guatemalan patients even after his passing.

Make Your Gift

Appeal

Every three minutes, a child is born with a cleft condition. Your gift today will help transform lives and increase access to essential surgical care.