At Cleft Con 2021, Vulnerability is Strength
“It's amazing what your cleft journey will do to your life when you embrace it.”
What My Cleft Taught Me
In honor of Cleft Awareness Month 2021, Smile Train's Cleft Community Advisory Council presents real-life stories of growing up with a cleft or being the mom to a child with a cleft from people who have been there.
How Iva Found Joy in Her Cleft
Why My Son Says He Always Wanted a Cleft
How Jasmine went from fear and self-doubt upon receiving the news that her baby would have a cleft to raising a six-year-old who is #CleftProud.
Virtual Marathons, Real Lives Saved
When endurance events got canceled around the world, these Smile Train supporters ran anyway.
Ride for Smile Train: Home Edition Passes Every Marker for Success
410 riders in 19 countries raise $66,000+ for life-changing cleft treatment.
Cleft Con Unites #Cleftstrong Community in Pride and Power
"There's power in my cleft."
“It is a Journey”: In Conversation with the Mom of a Child With a Cleft
Clefts are not just "fixable."
Team EMPOWER’s 24 Hour Run for Smiles Races Past its Goal
The plan was simple: Raise $12,500 by having someone, somewhere, running or walking for smiles every minute of the day July 1.
Chelsea and Luca
When Chelsea learned Luca would be born with a cleft, she couldn't find a community to comfort her. So she started her own.
Mark Goes the Extra Smile
When he turned 30, Mark knew he had to turn his life around and get fit. Thanks to Team EMPOWER, his good decision is also changing the lives of children in need around the world.