One-year-old Liphelo Makhosi who has bravely faced numerous challenges since her birth with a cleft lip finally underwent a successful operation after four attempts.
Liphelo had her operation done on July 22 at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital after four attempts at surgery which were thwarted by her medical conditions.
The transformation was made possible by Phuthaditjaba Care of the Aged and the Smile Foundation which worked tirelessly for the operation to happen, and the girl was welcomed home with a party celebration on July 31.
The celebration was filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt speeches from community members and supporters who came together to celebrate Liphelo’s journey and the significance of the moment.
Liphelo’s mother Akhona Makhosi expressed her gratitude during the celebration, sharing how the support they received changed their lives.
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“Today feels like a dream come true. I was so afraid for my baby girl and what her future would hold. Thanks to Phuthaditjaba Care of the Aged and the Smile Foundation, we not only get to celebrate her new smile but also her new beginning. Words can’t convey how thankful I am for this community’s support,” Makhosi said.
The founder of Phuthaditjaba Care of the Aged, Linda Twala, shared how excited he is to see Liphelo looking like other children.
“I am grateful to all [the] people that came forward and made Liphelo’s operation successful, because it’s been a year fighting this thing, but God has finally answered my prayers.
“This celebration is about more than just Liphelo’s surgery; it represents the spirit of community and the power of togetherness. Each child deserves a chance to smile fully and live without barriers and today we are reminded of the impact we can make when we come together to support each other,” Twala said.
“I thank all the people who came to celebrate this significant achievement and also to those who bought gifts for Liphelo. Maybe this girl is our next Mandela, who knows?” Twala concluded.
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