It is not an easy task to support the little lives of those who are in need of surgery, but the team of Smile Foundation, they continue to do so without showing any signs of slowing down.
The foundation which has been assisting children with cleft lip and palate surgery since 2002 shared a few of their highlights of the year.
“Some of our highlights are the piloting of the skills lab at Universitas Academic Hospital in Bloemfontein. For a plastic surgeon to be considered proficient in cleft lip and palate surgery they would be required to perform this type of surgery a minimum of 20 times. Operating on the beneficiaries is high-risk, therefore, we have piloted a skills lab where doctors can hone their skills on a 3D printed model,” said the marketing manager of the foundation, Toni Jabour.
ALSO READ: Smile Foundation appeals to the public for help with major backlog of child surgeries
The second highlight included the signing of the memorandum of understanding at the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital and having to reach 4 000 children who they helped with surgeries and support.
“Under our new leadership, we have supported 904 children within a nine-month period. We are growing exponentially and ensuring we reach as many children as possible to ensure no child is left behind. We are incredibly grateful to each and every person and company that has made joy possible for children in need of a life-changing surgery,” said Jabour.
Wish list:
- Educational toys
- Puzzles
- Books
- Building blocks
- Blankets
- X Box
- Doll’s house and Lego sets
“Smile Foundation wishes you and your family peace and joy this holiday season. We welcome the New Year with a positive attitude, gratitude and embracing all the magic that is right in front of us. We look forward to expanding next year, having a bigger footprint therefore enabling us to help as many children as possible,” concluded the CEO, Kim Robertson-Smith.
ALSO READ: Smile Foundation puts smiles on children with the help of the community