Smile Foundation SA gives Dimpho hope

POLOKWANE – “We help children live a life inspired by confidence and possibility, no matter their backgrounds or circumstances,” said Toni Jabour, marketing manager of the Smile Foundation South Africa. This sentiment is now a beacon of hope for Dimpho Kekana (18), whose life is set to change following the foundation’s intervention.

The foundation’s mission is to transform the lives of children affected by various facial abnormalities through the best possible surgical and psychological care.

Dimpho’s story came to light when Dr Mothibi Matlala received a call from her school principal Patrick Mosoete through her teacher, Onicca Mahlaela.

“Dimpho joined our school this year, and her teacher noticed a growth on her forehead affecting her eye and nose. It was clear that this was impacting her confidence, so I immediately reached out to Dr Matlala for help,” Mosoete explained.

Dimpho’s mother, Evah, recounted to Polokwane Observer how her daughter was born with normal features.

“Around age seven, I noticed a small pimple on her forehead. Over time, it grew larger, impacting her right eye and nose. Initially, it didn’t seem serious, but as Dimpho grew older, the lump became more noticeable and started affecting her confidence, especially in high school,” she said.

Upon receiving the e-mail from Matlala, the Smile Foundation responded. Relieved and hopeful, Matlala shared the good news with Mosoete and Evah.

He also consulted his wife, Dr Momo Mabeba-Matlala, who works at the Dr. George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Pretoria, where Dimpho’s surgery will take place.

“I’m pleased to be part of a team that can help Dimpho live her normal life again. It’s an honour to work together with the school, the Foundation, and the hospital surgeons,” said Mabeba-Matlala.

The Smile Foundation’s Belinda Long coordinated transport arrangements, but Dr. Matlala offered a more personal solution.

“When Long suggested using an Uber, I informed her that my wife works at the same hospital and would personally drive Dimpho and her mother there,” he said.

Dimpho was admitted to the hospital on Sunday, and preliminary blood tests have been conducted as they await the surgery schedule.

Evah expressed profound gratitude for the support they’ve received.

“There are no words to describe how I feel. The team has lifted a huge financial burden from me, as I’m unemployed. I’m beyond thankful for all the assistance, including travel costs. God has blessed us with such good Samaritans, and soon my daughter will have her smile back,” she said.

She hopes Dimpho’s story will inspire and give hope to other children facing similar challenges.