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Patient Stories

Mr. Blue’s Magical Adventure in Tanzania

Check out what a day in the life of Mr. Blue looks like

A magical thing happened when Mr. Blue arrived in Tanzania. Knitted with care and donated by the wonderful Teddy Bear Ladies, Mr. Blue is one of many warm companions that children born with cleft conditions receive at our surgical programs. He flew across continents, determined to bring smiles and joy to kids and to find his very special forever friend!

A teddy bear is seen brushing his teeth
Mr. Blue, brushing his teeth

Mr. Blue’s day started bright and early after a restful night’s sleep. He padded straight to the bathroom to brush his teeth squeaky clean because oral hygiene is an important pillar of health.

Did you know children born with cleft conditions often experience unique dental differences that require specialized attention and care?

Mr. Blue learned all about it and discovered good oral health practices during a dental care educational workshop.

It’s almost time to get going, but Mr. Blue can’t leave the hotel without a good hearty breakfast — and his morning coffee, of course! After all, Mr. Blue knows how important it is to have a nutritious meal if he wants to grow into a strong teddy.

A teddy bear is seen looking into a cup of coffee that he is supposed to be drinking
Mr. Blue having coffee and breakfast

At Operation Smile, families are supported with nutritional care so that every child is ready for safe surgery and able to grow and thrive long after care.

With his Operation Smile cape on and paws ready, Mr. Blue was off to the surgical program, ready to make a difference! He had a bear-y good time admiring the beautiful scenery from the bus and reflecting on his journey so far.

A teddy bear sits in the window seat of the bus
Mr. Blue admiring the views

This marked Operation Smile’s second surgical program in Tanzania where one in 600 children are born with cleft conditions. That’s why Mr. Blue felt proud to be part of something so special — helping transform smiles.

When he arrived, he met compassionate volunteer friends who had come together to share their time and skills to help give children a brighter future. From operating room nurses, anesthesiologists, surgeons and more, every volunteer has an important role to play — and that means Mr. Blue does too!

And at long last came the most magical moment of all. Mr. Blue snuggled into the arms of sweet, little Nickson — his forever friend.

A young child wearing knit clothes is smiling brightly after being handed a teddy bear
Mr. Blue in the arms of his forever friend, Nickson from Tanzania

With your support, more teddies like Mr. Blue can travel the world and into the arms of children who need comfort, courage and a warm hug along with an even warmer smile.

Check out Mr. Blue’s full magical adventure in Tanzania.