The Joy of Astrid’s Smile

For this young family, finding Smile Train meant finding freedom

Lissette will always remember how she felt the moment she first held her daughter, Astrid:

“I was scared.”

Astrid had a cleft. Lissette didn’t know how it would affect her health, where she could find care, or how the family would afford it even if she did.

Thankfully, her husband discovered Misión Caritas Felices (MCF), their local Smile Train partner in Lima. As Lissette spoke with the doctors, the fear surrounding Astrid’s cleft disappeared, replaced by peace of mind. She now had a clear plan for her daughter’s treatment.

To date, Astrid has received multiple free cleft surgeries at MCF and is scheduled to receive at least one more when she is older.

Astrid is now nine years old and loves going to school, playing with friends, sweeping the floor, and washing dishes. Lissette hopes that when Astrid grows up, she can pursue a good career.

Outside in the sun, Astrid stands in a trio with her mother in the middle and her brother on the left. Together, they smile and hold up a small circular banner with Smile Train’s logo. Behind them stretches the terrain of Lima
Astrid with Lissette and her brother

For all those who have helped her in her healing journey, Astrid sends a beaming smile and a big thumbs up:

“Thank you, Smile Train!”

Inspired by Astrid’s story? Make a difference today.