By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
Wife of the Edo State governor, Mrs Betsy Obaseki, has called on residents of the state to take adequate advantage of the ongoing free cleft lip and palate surgeries available in the state to correct deformities in affected children and restore smiles to their lives.
She made the call at the launch of a week-long free cleft lip and palate surgery medical outreach, organized by Smile Train International in collaboration with the Edo Specialist Hospital and the office of the wife of the Edo State Governor.
The event is being held at the Edo Specialist Hospital, Benin City.
According to Mrs. Obaseki, “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.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Stanley Ehiarimwian, highlighted the significance of the event, describing it as a symbol of hope, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to improving the health of the people.
The lead Consultant, Smile Train Project, Dr. Vivian Omo-Aghoja, provided 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 said that many women unknowingly consume alcohol through herbal preparations taken during pregnancy.
Beneficiaries of the programme 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 wife of the Edo Governor for their efforts in ending the stigma and pain associated with these deformities.
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.