Haleon and Smile Train Transform William’s Life in Brazil

A Family’s Joy Turns Into Fear

Marilane and Wellington were hardworking farmworkers in northern Brazil. With steady income and healthy children, their family had everything they needed. When they learned another baby was on the way, their joy doubled — until a routine ultrasound revealed their son, William, would be born with a cleft.

At first, the family was told it was “just a scratch on the face.” But when William was born, the challenges quickly became overwhelming. The hospital staff offered no guidance, and feeding was nearly impossible — milk leaked through William’s cleft palate, leaving him weak and underweight.

In their small town, no one had ever seen a cleft before. Rumors spread, and the family felt isolated.

Despite these hardships, Wellington remained strong: “He is my son, and I will take care of him no matter what.” 

A Desperate Journey to Save William’s Life

As William’s health declined, his parents knew they needed specialized cleft care. With little money but unwavering determination, they boarded a 40-hour bus to Brasilia, where Wellington’s parents lived.

There, they found hope. Local doctors stabilized William’s weight, and soon he was referred to Hospital Regional Asa Norte, a Smile Train partner hospital supported by Haleon.

Haleon and Smile Train Provide a Second Chance

At Hospital Regional Asa Norte, William received free, high-quality cleft surgery — made possible by Haleon’s corporate partnership with Smile Train.

Marilane recalls: “Here, I feel welcomed, well-received, and well-treated. My son has wonderful support in this hospital.”

The surgery was successful. But his cleft journey is still only beginning. He will need more surgeries, plus other specialized care such as orthodontics and dental work as he gets older — and the team at Asa Norte will be there by his side the whole way, ensuring he can grow up healthy and confident.

Why Partnerships Like Haleon’s Save Lives

William’s story could have ended tragically. A 2022 study commissioned by Smile Train revealed that between 2000 and 2020, more than 45,000 babies worldwide died from cleft-related malnutrition before their fifth birthday.

But thanks to his parents’ sacrifice — and the generosity of donors and Smile Train’s corporate partners like Haleon — William is thriving.

Wellington shares: “I just have to thank Smile Train and Haleon a lot for everything they’re doing for us.”

Marilane adds: “May you continue to bless more families. Whenever you are present in the lives of people in need… everything will work out.”