Unable to speak or eat properly, many children with cleft are condemned to a life of health and speech problems. Because of the way they look, they are social outcasts from the day they are born until the day they die, sentenced to a life of shame and isolation. Most are never allowed to attend school or hold a job, and have little hope of ever getting married or having a family. Often, their own families hide them out of shame, or fear that superstitions will force the family to be driven from their home to live on the road as outcasts. For the lucky few who do find help, it is a day they'll never forget.
Many mothers faint at the sight of their children after surgery.
Some parents find it hard to believe it is their child. After years of being hidden in shame and isolation, many children blossom and become outgoing, confident and ambitious. Look into the faces of these beautiful children. Share the journey of Lou Lou and his family as they trade a life of physical and emotional pain into one of joy and hope for the future. The Smile Train.