Our Smiles for Life campaign funds cleft palate operations for children in The Philippines, giving them the chance to smile confidently and overcome social and communication barriers. We are dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to lead a happy and fulfilling life, regardless of their medical needs.
Cleft lip and palate are openings or splits in the upper lip and roof of the mouth, respectively, caused by incomplete closure of facial structures during fetal development.
Cleft lip and palate are common birth defects that occur when the facial structures of a developing fetus do not fully close. Although they can occur on their own, they are often associated with inherited genetic conditions or syndromes.
Although having a baby born with a cleft can be distressing, there is hope for correction. In most cases, a series of surgeries can restore normal function and achieve a more natural appearance with minimal scarring.
Children born with cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, often face various challenges, which can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. These include:
A £300 donation funds one cleft palate operation. UK taxpayers only need to raise £240 as personal donations qualify for 25% gift aid.
