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.

Madagascar
Six-year-old Honoré plays with fellow patients and their family members during the April 2022 Operation Smile surgical program in Tamatave, Madagascar. Honoré, who was born with a cleft lip and palate, is wearing a colorful T-shirt and is holding the edge of a colorful parachute. He and his playmates are smiling widely and playing joyfully. In the background, families sit in plastic chairs on the lawn in front of a medical facility waiting for their children's health to be evaluated for surgery.

Scenes of Hope and Healing: Tamatave Surgical Program

In late April 2022, Operation Smile hosted its first international surgical program in Madagascar since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Follow the stories of some of our patients and medical volunteers as they unite for this long-awaited and life-changing experience.
Ghana
Photo: Margherita Mirabella.

Picturing Her New Beginning

After living 52 years with an untreated cleft lip, Akosua discovered a new passion for helping people like herself.
Bolivia
Photo: Margherita Mirabella.

Timely Cleft Surgery, Brighter Futures

The early discovery of their son’s cleft condition transformed Felipe and America’s fear into determination as they searched for a solution in the months leading up to his birth.
Guatemala
Nutritionist Monica Arredondo from Guatemala cares for a patient.

Nourishing Her Country: Q&A with Nutritionist Monica Arredondo

In Guatemala, where one in every two children suffers from chronic malnutrition, Monica Arredondo is not only saving lives but helping alleviate an immense need in the country she loves.
Madagascar
Photo: Rohanna Mertens.

After Decades Without Surgery, Two Lives Changed in an Instant

Amid the bullying and painful treatment, Arsene refused to let anyone diminish his happiness.
Honduras
Photo: Rohanna Mertens.

A Woman Who Serves: Q&A with Surgeon Dr. Gladys Amaya

As one of the few female plastic surgeons in Honduras, Dr. Gladys Amaya understands the honor and fulfillment she feels when she volunteers alongside other women during Operation Smile surgical programs.
Morocco
Photo: Mariam Moummade.

See These Women Brighten Futures and Empower Lasting Change

From all around the world, volunteers joined together and provided life-changing surgery to 70 patients during the second international surgical program in Morocco comprised entirely of women.
Malawi
Photo: Margherita Mirabella.

A Reflection of Hope

Even before surgery, Ziyalesi knew what her smile would look like if she wasn’t born with a cleft lip. All she needed to do was look at her twin sister.
Morocco
Janat's baby photo goes here.

When All Seemed Lost, Hope for Janat Was Found

VIDEO: Once on the verge of starvation, Janat now has a brighter future thanks to life-saving dental care and the unwavering determination of her parents.

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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.

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