This initiative took place on Tuesday (3/3), as part of the Smile Week aimed at reducing surgical backlogs for young patients. The event is focused on treating children with cleft lips, cleft palates, and those requiring facial reanimation or reconstruction.

Smile Foundation CEO Tshidi Chabane-Xaba says many of these patients travel from regions including the North West and Northern Cape due to a shortage of specialist plastic surgeons in those provinces.

Among those treated on Tuesday was Khanyisile Gobodo, 15 months, the child of Sindiswa Gobodo, who underwent a cleft palate repair procedure.

“I am happy that my child is going to have a better life,” said Gobodo.

Collaborative support, resources

The initiative is supported by donors, including Vetmen, who provided essential medical consumables such as sutures and ET tubes.

Different stakeholders were present at the event on Tuesday (3/3) at Universitas Academic Hospital. Photo: Refilwe Bekane 

These donations bridge the gap created by public health budget cuts. Beyond the operating theatre, the foundation provides nursing staff, transport for families, and comfort packs containing toiletries for mothers, and toys, blankets, and colouring books for the children.

Specialist surgical insights

Dr Nikita Blake, a consultant specialist in plastic reconstructive surgery, is the lead organiser for the surgical team. She noted while 23 children were originally scheduled, 21 proceeded with surgery as some patients were disqualified due to illness. The team performs these concentrated blocks of surgery twice a year, typically in March and again in September or October.

“It’s such an honour and privilege to be able to change children’s lives and help them to live more normal lives,” said Blake.

Long-term impact

Following surgery, the Smile Foundation provides access to speech therapists and home-based exercise programmes to ensure the children can eventually transition into mainstream schooling.

One of the young patients who was operated to bring her voice back. Photo: Refilwe Bekane 

“We want people to have hope in the public health,there are good specialists in the public health, so we thank them for trusting us with their kids' lives,” said Xaba.

Members of the public are encouraged to support the foundation’s work through donations. Interested parties can visit their official website.

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OFM News/Refilwe Bekane sm