Our Stories

Even knowing help is available isn’t always enough to remove the stigma of having a cleft.

Love always finds a way.

A mother’s account of her child’s journey to cleft care in her own words.

At one month old, Mirian weighed just four pounds. Five months later, with the support of our local partners, she had transformed into a happy, chubby baby.

Soan worried her son would be discriminated against his entire life.

Though Mohammad's future is uncertain, Smile Train has given him hope.

When Samnang was born with a cleft, her parents felt overwhelmed. But a midwife reassured them that, thanks to Smile Train, they had nothing to fear.

When Valery was born, her parents cried at the sight of her cleft. Now, thanks to continuing treatment sponsored by Smile Train, Valery fills their lives with song and music.

Everyone told Gyana to abandon her daughter when she was born with a cleft; her husband threatened to kill himself if she didn't. Afraid for both their lives, she took the child and fled. 

After a rough beginning, Jenious' life is now filled with puppies, music, and kung-fu.