Our Stories

“It's amazing what your cleft journey will do to your life when you embrace it.”

When Vivian started school, the kids laughed at her so much she didn't want to live. Then she met someone who told her she should become a model. 

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. 

Smile Train staff in Africa are ready to show you the impact of your support. 

Thanks to you, thousands of children will think of 2020 as the best year ever.

When Hema was 12 years old, she learned that not everyone born with a cleft received the care she did. She decided right then to change that.

"Be strong. Work hard. Love one another."

While Homer succeeded in three challenging careers, he was most proud of the smiles he made along the way.

When Chelsea learned Luca would be born with a cleft, she couldn't find a community to comfort her. So she started her own.