Operation Smile launches mega-mission to mark 25 yrs of Vietnam work

Operation Smile, am American charity organization, is running a “mega mission” to provide free cleft surgery to over 1,000 children across Vietnam from November 17 – 21.

As many as 300 multinational medical volunteers will take part in Operation Smile’s biggest operation this year in Vietnam to commemorate the 25th anniversary of its mission in the Southeast Asian country.

Over the last 25 years, Operation Smile has given free operations to over 33,000 children with cleft lips, cleft palate and other facial deformities.

The free surgeries will be conducted from November 17-21 in six provinces and cities from north to south, including Hanoi, Nghe An, Thua Thien Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, Bac Lieu and An Giang.

Cleft lip operations are only performed on children who are at least six months old and weigh eight kilograms. Children of at least 18 months of age and weighing 12kg are eligible for cleft palate surgeries.

Children will also be given free food and accommodation during the treatment period at hospitals.

Reuters / Tuoi Tre News