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What is cleft lip?

Cleft lip is a congenital condition characterized by an opening or split on the upper lip. There are two kinds of cleft lip: unilateral, when an opening or split occurs on only one side of the mouth, and bilateral, when the opening or separation occurs on both sides.

What issues do children with cleft lip face?

VULNERABLE HEALTH AND FREQUENT INFECTIONS

Children with cleft lip are more prone to infections, and difficulty eating leads to frequent illness–especially in infants.

STIGMA

Children may be excluded or experience ridicule, leading to embarrassment and isolation.

COMMUNICATION CHALLENGES

Cleft lip can cause speech delays which hinder a child’s ability to communicate, preventing them from connecting with others.

How does surgery change a
child’s life?

  • A new smile brings confidence and hope.
  • Children can eat more effectively, leading to better physical and emotional health.
  • Speech improves, restoring confidence as children participate in community life.

Miracles happen every day at CURE Kenya

How Benson overcame cleft lip

When Benson was born with a cleft lip, he was referred to a local hospital for treatment, but he could not have surgery because he was underweight. He eventually had surgery there but his lip tore shortly after. When a mobile clinic came near their village, his mom took Benson and he was scheduled for surgery at CURE Kenya. Benson can now be confident with his new smile.

Contact Us

CURE Kenya’s mission is to provide every child living with a disability the physical, emotional, and spiritual care they need to heal. If you have questions about becoming a patient or a partner with CURE, please contact us.

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