 |
 Nicholas, 9 months, Venezuela
Nicholas’ parents were distraught when
they saw their son’s cleft deformity and
were too embarrassed to bring him out in
public. They hid Nicholas from friends
and family, caring for him in seclusion in
their tiny home, in a poor, slum area of
Venezuela. His parents were overcome
with guilt for having to hide Nicholas,
knowing that they could never afford to
pay for surgery.
One day, they heard a radio announcement
that Hospital de Especialidades Pediatricas was performing surgeries for children
born with cleft deformities and that the cost of the surgeries was being covered
by The Smile Train.
It took them an entire day by bus to get to the hospital, but their trip was well worth
it. Soon after they arrived, they received the wonderful news that Nicholas would
receive free surgery. The surgery was a success and now the whole family is overcome
with happiness and smiles! |
