At only 2 months old, Isaac has already left a deep mark on his family. He was born with cleft condition — a condition that his parents, Freddy, a 40-year-old teacher, and Noemí, a 35 year old, were unaware of until his arrival into the world.

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Isaac's birth was a whirlwind of emotions. Freddy felt overwhelmed and disoriented, while Noemí found in her faith and the unconditional support of her family the strength necessary to face this new challenge. "I leaned a lot on God," Noemí tells us, highlighting how serenity and family love played a crucial role in those early days.

From the beginning, Isaac has been a beloved baby. Their arrival brought not only challenges, but also immense joy and a renewed sense of purpose, especially for Noemí, who lost her 9-month-old baby two years ago. "Isaac has been my joy since the day he was born. God allowed him to meet other people who need hope," Noemí reflects. Isaac and his older brother are the light of the house, filling every corner with happiness and love.

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Isaac's life took a hopeful turn when Noemí met Operation Smile Dominican Republic. A pediatrician recommended she follow the foundation on Instagram, where Noemí was able to see the positive impact of our work. Impressed by what she saw, she decided to approach Operation Smile. "The Operation Smile foundation has been very supportive for me and my baby. I love how they have welcomed Isaac and the treatment they have given him has been of great help, both with feeding and with his adaptation," she tells us.

Isaac's progress has been remarkable. "I've seen how the first plate went from being tight to big, closing her palate little by little," says Noemi proudly. 

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Despite his condition, Isaac is a happy child, full of life and joy. His resilience and smile have changed Noemi's perspective on life and motherhood.

Noemi's dreams and hopes for Isaac's future are full of love and faith. She tells us that her greatest wish would be to have his first surgery this year and to be able to breastfeed. Her second wish is that next year he will have his second surgery.

Isaac's story is a testimony of unconditional love, hope and the unwavering faith of a mother. At Operation Smile, we are honored to be a part of his journey and committed to continuing to support Isaac and his family every step of the way. Each new smile is a celebration of life and the promise of a future full of possibilities.