In the first week of February, the Smiles International Foundation, led by Dr. Jeffrey J. Moses, returned to Los Cabos to perform the year’s first free cleft lip and palate surgeries.
The foundation successfully implemented these life-changing interventions through a partnership with the Los Cabos Rotary Club, led by president Linda McHatton and supported by a team of experts.
For over 12 years, the Smiles International Foundation has conducted two surgical days each year in Los Cabos, offering hope and transforming the lives of many community families.
During the campaign, 50 patients, selected from a total of 365 registered, were assessed comprehensively. As a result, 18 children underwent 67 reconstructive surgical procedures, giving them a new opportunity to improve their quality of life.
The surgery was carried out over four days, using intensive paediatric and general anaesthesia to ensure the highest level of medical care. In addition, patients received specialised assessments, therapies and complete speech and language pathology studies, which are essential for their comprehensive rehabilitation.
The H+ Hospital supported the most complex cases, where specialized surgeries were performed, ensuring the best possible care for each child.
It is important to note that treating cleft lip and palate patients requires multiple surgical interventions over the years. Each patient may need more than seven surgeries to achieve a complete and functional reconstruction.
Thanks to the dedication of the Smiles International Foundation and its commitment to continuous care, the children receive not only the necessary surgeries but also the medical and therapeutic follow-up that is essential for their overall development and well-being.
The estimated relative value of this medical-surgical mission is $421,500 USD, with out-of-pocket expenses amounting to $8,500 USD.
This work was made possible by an expert and committed team of 22 professionals, including doctors, nurses and speech therapists. Their tireless dedication made it possible to perform complex and transformative surgeries, ensuring the optimal use of paediatric anaesthesia in each intervention. The expertise and commitment of these volunteers were crucial to the mission’s success.
All the doctors, nurses and specialists were thanked, and special thanks were given to Dr Alejandro Avalos of the Hospital de Especialidades, Dr Arlet Fong, Medical Director of Hospital H+, and Dr Jazibeth Zorrilla, Head of the Operating Room. He also extended his gratitude to all of this year’s sponsors: Clínica de Especialidades, Hospital H+, Del Mar Los Cabos, PR Solutions, Mango Deck, Outpost, Garambullo Catering & hefs Services, Los Cabos Ride, District Mx, and Puerta Vieja Restaurant.
If you know of a child or person who needs cleft lip or palate surgery, we kindly ask you to share this information with them. Remember, the more people who receive this message, the more support we will receive. For information and appointments, please call 624 228 9888.
Local professionals working with international professionals, all free of charge.
