Smile Foundation is a pillar of support for children in South Africa suffering from life-altering craniofacial conditions. It is dedicated to addressing the critical shortage of surgeries in the public health sector.
Western Cape, South Africa (01 October 2024) – In a country where the public healthcare system struggles to meet the overwhelming demand for craniofacial critical surgeries, Smile Foundation is stepping up to provide timely, life-changing care.
By partnering with hospitals and medical professionals, the foundation seeks to provide these critical surgeries to children in need and support to affected families.
Craniosynostosis occurs when the skull sutures close prematurely, leading to an abnormal head shape. Symptoms include a misshapen skull, facial asymmetry, and, in severe cases, increased intracranial pressure, causing vomiting, seizures, and developmental delays.
The touching story of Neyasha, a brave four-year-old from Somerset West is just one example of many children born with the skull abnormality among other complications.
Neyasha was born at 27 weeks, weighing just 890 grams. Despite losing his twin brother and facing respiratory distress and neonatal jaundice, Neyasha fought through months in the ICU.
At four months, his mother, Nelly, noticed an unusual head shape, and he was diagnosed with craniosynostosis, requiring cranial vault remodelling and orbital frontal advancement surgery.
Despite her nerves, Neyasha’s spirit remained lively before the surgery, and his recovery has been smooth, thanks to attentive ICU care. His journey highlights the life-changing impact of craniofacial surgeries.
Another case is that of Careson Fortuin, a 13-year-old girl from Worcester who was diagnosed with Crouzon Syndrome.
Despite difficulties in diagnosing her condition, Careson’s strength led her to cranial vault remodelling surgery, offering her a brighter future. Now thriving at the Pioneer School for the Visually Impaired, she’s overcoming past bullying and excelling in a supportive environment.
These brave young children, along with countless others, have seen their lives changed forever thanks to the unwavering support of Smile Foundation.
Smile Foundation is committed to addressing the urgent need for craniofacial surgeries by partnering with Tygerberg Hospital to help children receive the care they desperately need.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, the foundation is committed to reducing the backlog in public healthcare systems and giving many other children with Craniosynostosis the brighter futures they deserve.
by 