According to the foundation, facial anomalies and burn injuries in children often extend far beyond what meets the eye. These physical differences often lead to emotional and psychological challenges that are deeply painful and difficult to overcome. 

For many of these children, the true burden lies in their social isolation and the loss of their sense of self. For many children bearing such visible and invisible scars of facial anomalies and burn injuries, Smile Week is an immense source of hope; it is their chance at a brighter future, the Smile Foundation says. 

"We are incredibly proud to partner with SMILE Foundation in its mission to bring hope and healing to children in need. At ACSA, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. This initiative aligns perfectly with our values, and we are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of these young patients and their families," says Thabo Phateng, airport manager of the Bram Fischer International Airport.

The Smile Foundation says that among the 22 children undergoing surgery this Smile Week is Kananelo, a 10-year-old boy burdened by the scars of a tragic accident. At just two years old, a pot of hot cooking oil scalded his skin, leaving his face and neck severely burned and his chin fused to his chest.

This prevents him from lifting his head and causes constant discomfort. The surgical team will insert two tissue expanders to stretch the skin and restore his movement, the foundation adds. 

Since that fateful day, life has been forever changed for Kananelo and his family. His mother, working in Sasolburg, faces the dual burden of worry and financial strain. Each month, she travels from Sasolburg to Qwaqwa, where Kananelo lives with his grandmother, and together they go to Bloemfontein Hospital for check-ups, a painful reminder of the day that altered their lives, according to the foundation. 

"Seeing Kananelo in pain after the accident breaks my heart. He's scarred inside and out, and children tease him, making school unbearable. The tight scars around his mouth and neck make speaking difficult. We are incredibly grateful to ACSA, Smile Foundation, and the kind doctors who are giving him the chance to smile again," says Kananelo's mother.

"Smile Foundation expresses deep gratitude to the generous decision-makers at Airports Company South Africa (ACSA.) Your kindness and compassion have yet again, breathed life into our initiative," says Tarri Parfitt, CEO of Smile Foundation. 

"Because of your support, these children will receive life-changing surgeries, opening doors to a future filled with smiles, self-acceptance and the simple joys of childhood. You are also giving families the immeasurable gifts of joy, hope and emotional healing," adds Parfitt.

"We are eternally grateful to the dedicated surgeons, medical professionals and hospital staff who make this miracle possible every month. You are the true heroes," concludes Parfitt. 

For more information, visit www.smilefoundationsa.org. You can also follow the Smile Foundation on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of Facebook