Nonprofit Helping Children Smile

Operation Smile is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1982 and provides treatment for children born with cleft conditions. Across the globe, about one in every 500 to 750 children are born with a cleft condition. This happens during pregnancy when a gap in the mouth does not close correctly.

 Dr. Paul Drago is a health and wellness specialist who believes in taking a holistic approach. An effective wellness routine calls for a balance of nutrition, fitness, and mental health care. Even off the clock, he is passionate about helping people, and supports Operation Smile’s efforts to improve children’s overall health and wellness through their life changing procedures. 

Without proper treatment, a cleft condition can cause all sorts of problems.  Children may have issues with feeding, which can lead to malnutrition.  They could also suffer from ear infections, hearing loss.  Issues with jaw and dental development, and problems with speech. 

Operation smile provides surges for children with cleft conditions, as well as continual care. This could include additional surgery, dental work, psychological services, speech therapy, and other treatments. They are dedicated to making sure that cleft conditions do not hinder a child’s quality of life.