Our Stories

Why Smile Train's local model matters, from one of our most inspiring partners

A cleft mother’s true story of faith, miracles, and Smile Train

Love always finds a way.

Cleft surgery was only one piece of Livingstone's journey from malnourished baby to star of his village.

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.

For 70 years, Pyari knew little besides rejection and heartbreak, until you gave her hope. And a smile.

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.

Health workers from Burundi attend a workshop so they can better teach others about the importance of cleft nutrition. 

Auner was lucky to survive long enough to enter our partner's care. Now, he's thriving and smiling.