In Honduras, the heart of Central America, a single mother named Marlen faced a life-changing moment when her son, Yeikob, was born. After a difficult C-section, Marlen got to see her newborn after three days. When she finally held him, she was surprised, A doctor explained that Yeikob had been born with a cleft lip. While the news was overwhelming, she learned that surgery could give him a new smile.
As a young mother of just 27, Marlen found herself navigating the challenges of raising a child with a cleft condition. Support from her family and community was nonexistent, instead they blamed her for her son’s condition. Despite the whispers, Marlen remained determined to give Yeikob the best life possible.
That’s where you enter their story. Everything that happens after this moment is thanks to the generosity of compassionate Canadians like you who make our surgical programs and comprehensive care centres possible.
When Yeikob was five months old, Marlen brought him to the Operation Smile Honduras Clinic in Tegucigalpa. There, she learned about an upcoming surgical program that would change their lives forever. After applying lip tape to assist with feeding, Marlen could see the hope shining in Yeikob’s eyes. Together, they had the opportunity to meet other families facing similar struggles.
In February, when Yeikob’s name was announced for surgery, Marlen felt a surge of emotions—nervousness, happiness, and a sense of relief. After the operation, the feeling was incredible. Marlen exclaimed, “I was so happy and pleased with what the surgeons did.” The joy of returning home with Yeikob’s beautiful new smile was a moment she will treasure forever.
Today, when people meet Yeikob for the first time, they cannot believe he was born with a cleft lip. His journey has not only changed his life but has also transformed Marlen’s experience as a mother. Feeding is now a joy, and Yeikob has grown strong and healthy.
Marlen’s heartfelt words, “le doy gracias a ellos,” or “I give my thanks to them,” resonate deeply. She is grateful to Operation Smile for giving her son a chance at a brighter future.
As we prepare for our upcoming surgical program in Tegucigalpa the first week of November, our goal is to screen 180 patients and provide surgeries to those strong enough (anticipating 90 children) . This ambitious initiative is made possible through the support of volunteers and supporters like you. Thanks to you, we offer essential services, including ground transportation for patients from remote areas (about $37 per family), lodging for a patient and their mom or dad (about $62), and meals throughout their stay at our shelter and hospitals (about $94).
During this program, four dedicated Canadian medical volunteers will travel to Tegucigalpa, bringing their skills and compassion to those in need. Additionally, volunteers from Johnson & Johnson will deliver handmade blankets to keep our young patients warm during and after their surgeries, showcasing the spirit of community and care that Operation Smile embodies.
Every donation you make helps provide life-changing surgeries, support for families, and the promise of brighter futures for children like Yeikob. Your generosity can turn hope into reality, giving more children the chance to smile without fear and embrace their childhood fully.
Thank you for believing in the power of a smile and for supporting Operation Smile.
