Once again, the Smile Foundation partnered with the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital (RMSH) to bring life-altering reconstructive surgery to 20 deserving children.
This is taking place from Monday, 2 December, to Friday, during Smile Week in Kimberley.
This collaborative effort is sponsored by the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa).
Most of the young patients attending this Smile Week will undergo cleft lip and palate repair surgery, with two children undergoing treatment for severe burn injuries.
One of the young burn survivors is Gomolemo, a seven-year-old girl from Kuruman. Gomolemo suffered extensive burn injuries during a devastating shack fire that broke out two years ago. Her arms, hands, upper body and legs were excessively burned, and she has spent close to a year at the RMSH receiving treatment and medical care for these injuries.
In addition to the surgery, to help alleviate the family’s financial burden, the Smile Foundation will also provide transport for them to and from the hospital during the upcoming week.
“The many Smile Week initiatives that we have been involved in have shown us that a child having to live life with some form of disfigurement does not only encounter physical challenges, but their struggle can be an extremely emotional one too.
“We at the Acsa are honoured to be playing a part in giving these children the chance to finally be able to express themselves fully, and engage with their surroundings without limitation,” shares the Acsa spokesperson.
“Every passing moment is a chance for transformation, but for children living with facial anomalies and burn injuries, these can feel far out of reach. It is only through the generosity of our wonderful, long-time sponsors like the Acsa and the outstanding team of surgeons, medical officials and hospital support staff – who offer their time and talent out of the goodness of their heart – that more and more children are given the chance to live happier, more confident lives,” concludes Tarri Parfitt, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Smile Foundation.
Reconstructive surgery for children offers a profound, transformative impact, which extends far beyond the physical.
It is not just about repairing cleft palates or correcting burn injuries; it is about rebuilding young lives by mending the invisible scars of social isolation, bullying, and an eroding sense of self-worth.
Through their many Smile Week initiatives, the Smile Foundation makes these life-altering surgeries a reality for disadvantaged children whose families could not otherwise afford such costly medical procedures.
Visit smilefoundationsa.org.
