The lives of 21 children from across the Free State and Gauteng have changed for the better after undergoing corrective surgeries at the Universitas Academic Hospital in Bloemfontein. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These life-altering surgeries were performed pro bono during the annual Smile Week, which took place from 7 to 11 March. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Letitia Jordaan, Smile Foundation representative, a team of seven doctors performed corrective surgeries on 21 children with facial abnormalities and severe burn wounds during this week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Olivia Stevens (15 months) from Johannesburg, one of the beneficiaries, was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. This condition has made it almost impossible for her to eat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, though, thanks to corrective surgery, her struggles have been alleviated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Similarly, Tshepang Mogoboya (17 months) from Kroonstad underwent a surgery to repair a cleft palate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lindokuhle Makhubo, a seven-year-old from Warden, has been undergoing surgeries to repair his bilateral cleft lip and palate since before his first birthday. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, having been booked for a facial artery musculomucosal flap to close the fistula in his palate, the end of his surgical journey is in sight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Smile Foundation is dedicated to helping disadvantaged children with facial abnormalities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Established 21 years ago, the foundation has since expanded its mission to help children suffering from serious burn wounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Over the years, the gift of a smile has been given to more than 4 000 children across South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt is with immense admiration and gratitude that we acknowledge every medical professional at the Universitas Academic Hospital,\u201d said Kim Robertson Smith, chief executive officer of Smile Foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe surgeons, administrators, sponsors and volunteers have sacrificed their time to change lives and make miracles happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cTogether we can help children to overcome obstacles and live a life of opportunities with confidence.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The lives of 21 children from across the Free State and Gauteng have changed for the better after undergoing corrective surgeries at the Universitas Academic Hospital in 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