Smile Train, Marikina St. Vincent General Hospital, with local partners, the City Government of Kabankalan, and Rotary International District 3850-Negros Area, came together recently to provide free surgery for cleft lip and palate in Kabankalan City.
The event, held at the Kabankalan City Hospital, was a resounding success, transforming the lives of 93 children who needed surgery to smile confidently and have a brighter future.
The event was made possible through the efforts of compassionate doctors and generous donors who made significant contributions to ensure its success. The team provided comprehensive care to the children, from preoperative checkups to postoperative care, to guarantee that they received the best possible treatment.
“The children who benefited from this program will no longer have to suffer from social stigma or discrimination due to their appearance. Instead, they can live their lives with confidence and have the same opportunities as their peers,” said assistant Rotary governor Trixie Villavicencio.
She added the event was a powerful reminder of the impact of kindness and generosity. Witnessing the joy on those children’s faces was a moving experience for all involved, especially those who played a role in making this initiative possible.
“Through events like this, we hope to inspire others to join our cause and help make a difference in the lives of children with cleft lip and palate. We extend our sincerest gratitude to our partners and donors who have supported us in this endeavor. Together, we can continue to transform lives, one smile at a time,” said City Mayor Benjie Miranda.*
