A New Beginning for Kelly
Kelly and her parents embarked on a long, arduous journey, traveling hundreds of miles across Mexico to their destination: Mexico City. It was 2023, and they were headed to a Smile Network surgical campaign site in hopes that Kelly would be eligible for a life-changing transformative surgery to repair her cleft lip. More than 100 children were screened as Kelly and her parents waited patiently for their turn to meet the doctors who could change Kelly’s life.
With skilled hands and compassionate hearts, the surgical team performed the surgery that repaired Kelly’s cleft lip. Kelly’s reflection in the mirror no longer held the shadow of uncertainty—it now shimmered with the promise of a brighter future.
Months later, in May of 2024, Kelly and her father returned to Ajijic, Mexico for the next chapter in her transformation: a cleft palate surgery. The surgery was a success, and the journey that began in Mexico City had come full circle.
For many children in developing countries, life with an unrepaired cleft can mean limited opportunities, from education to employment, and even marriage. Kelly’s future will be different. She has a smile that can light up a room, and her laughter is contagious. This transformation was made possible because of someone like you.
Please consider making a donation this holiday season to bring hope and a bright future to more children like Kelly.
All donations, in any amount, are deeply appreciated.
