First Lady of Edo State, Betsy Obaseki, has called on residents to take advantage of the ongoing free cleft lip and palate surgeries available in the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that the surgeries aim to correct deformities in affected children and bring smiles back to their lives.
According to a statement released; Betsy made the appeal at the launch of a week-long free cleft lip and palate surgery medical outreach, organized by Smile Train International in collaboration with Edo Specialist Hospital and First Lady’s office.
The event is being held at Edo Specialist Hospital, Benin City.
Betsy asserted that the initiative is nothing short of miraculous
She said, “We have seen individuals with severe deformities that impact not just their appearance but their entire lives. Such deformities often lead to social isolation, preventing children from attending school or even adults from getting married. What we are witnessing here today is the restoration of lives, smiles, hope, and a future for these individuals. It is truly a week of miracles. My heartfelt thanks go to Smile Train International for their unwavering support. I urge all those suffering from these deformities to come forward and take advantage of this opportunity.”
Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Health, Dr Stanley Ehiarimwian, highlighted the significance of the event, saying it is a symbol of hope, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to improving the health of the people.
Lead Consultant, Smile Train Project, Dr. Vivian Omo-Aghoja gave insights into the causes of cleft lip and palate deformities, pointing to factors such as alcohol consumption, inadequate folic acid intake, and environmental influences.
She noted that many women unknowingly consume alcohol through herbal preparations taken during pregnancy.
One of the beneficiaries of the program who shared their heartfelt experiences, Mrs. Gift Oise described the emotional and social challenges of raising a child with a cleft lip, expressing immense gratitude for the life-changing opportunity provided by the outreach.
Another beneficiary, Pastor Roland Eghagha, spoke of his long-awaited prayers being answered, expressing eternal gratitude to the Edo State Government, Smile Train, and the First Lady for their efforts in ending the stigma and pain associated with these deformities.
The statement added, “The free cleft lip and palate surgeries continue to offer hope and new beginnings to many in Edo State, exemplifying the power of community and compassion in transforming lives.”
