Moments of Magic in Kalibo

Moments of Magic, Lindsey Welker Outreach Volunteer

There are moments in life that are so magical, they are hard to explain in words, moments that reshape you. I want to share my experience with you. What began as a trip to serve alongside my husband in the Philippines with Mending Faces became something far more personal. It felt a little like stepping into a Disney story. Not the fairytale version, but the kind where growth happens in the middle of uncertainty. I didn’t yet realize how deeply this experience would shape me. This was my husband Joe’s second mission. My first. He tried to explain what it would be like, and I listened; however, no amount of description could have prepared me for what I experienced. As a school counselor, I spend my days helping children navigate big emotions and trying to help them build resiliency through the setbacks, the fears and the hard chapters in their lives that feel overwhelming. I never anticipated the courage and resiliency I was blessed to witness in the children and their families in Kalibo. They were so incredibly brave. It was inspiring! Last year, I showed up to the ER dressed as Elsa after my son broke his collarbone on Halloween. I learned that night that even in painful places, a little magic can shift the atmosphere. This moment was what gave life to me dressing up for the kids in the Philippines. The simple idea became something so much bigger than I ever could have imagined. I thought I was bringing smiles. I thought I was bringing the magic. But the truth is… the children brought the magic to me. They reminded me that courage doesn’t always roar. That strength can be gentle. That joy can exist even before the “happily ever after.” They have absolutely captured my heart!

To the entire Mending Faces team, the beautiful humans who serve so selflessly, you are the real heroes in this story. A quote from Hercules, “A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart.” I saw that heart in every hallway, every operating room, every embrace. Thank you for welcoming me into something so much bigger than myself. Disney stories always end with transformation. This one did too. And I will carry this chapter in my heart forever.

Outreach in the Community

Outreach in the Community- By Volunteer, William H. Heatter III

We are here in the Philippines on a medical mission with Mending Faces, restoring smiles for children and adults born with cleft lip and cleft palate. But yesterday, our work reached beyond the walls of the operating room and into something just as sacred.

Our outreach team had the profound honor of visiting a native ATI village in Aklan, Kalibo, Philippines. We walked the narrow paths into their community carrying care packages and simple hygiene supplies. We meet with children, teaching them how to care for their teeth. We laughed. We sang. We danced. We learned. We shared smiles, big and small.

Their way of life is not built on comfort or excess. It is built on survival. No luxuries. No conveniences. Just earth beneath their feet, families beside them, and hearts wide open. And yet, standing there among them, it became clear, while they may have very little by the world’s standards, they possess something many never find: Connection, gratitude, and a deep, unshaken sense of enough.

They reminded us that humanity is not measured by what we own, but by how we show up for one another. That love does not require abundance. That dignity lives in simplicity. That when we reach across differences with open hands, we discover how deeply intertwined we humans truly are.

We arrived thinking we were there to give. We left knowing we had received something far greater. Yesterday was not just beautiful. It was humbling. And these beautiful souls are forever etched into our hearts.

A Nurse's First Mission: Kalibo 2026

My name is Michele Hiner. I’ve been a Registered Nurse for 15 years and this is my first medical mission. I’ve known about Mending Faces for quite a while and am so fortunate that it finally worked out for me to join the team on this trip, especially since my husband (Brandon Hiner - surgical assistant) and daughter (Isabel Hiner) were able to come as well. I knew that by joining this mission I would get to play a part in changing the lives of children; what I wasn’t prepared for was how much these tiny little patients and their families would change me and my nursing practice. These families have so little compared to the United States, yet their genuine contentment and joy is absolutely infectious. They make do with what they have and take pride in it, and the healthcare we provide while here reflects that. We don’t have all of the conveniences of home - there aren’t high tech monitoring systems, or expensive OR equipment, or even much air conditioning; yet we make do with what we have and still provide the highest quality of safe patient care with beautiful outcomes that any OR team would be proud of. This mission work is the very heart of healthcare -  individuals of different backgrounds and cultures coming together to use their skill, expertise, and available resources to work towards the singular goal of improving the lives of others…. And it’s all done with joy and a SMILE.

My First Medical Mission, Isabel Hiner

My name is Isabel Hiner. I’m 15 years old, and I came on this medical mission trip to the Philippines for the first time with my parents, who are also here for the first time working with Mending Faces, performing procedures on cleft lip and palate patients. Being part of this experience has already been so eye-opening and impactful—something I will truly cherish. I got involved through my parents and our close family friends, the Lababadis, who play a big role in the organization. When I first heard about the opportunity, I was nervous to be involved in something that would impact others’ lives so deeply, but I was also so excited to know there was a place and a job for me. Even though I’m young, I can still help make a difference. I’ve been meeting all the kids and their families in the role they call Outreach, alongside our very own “Princess” Lindsey and the experienced Randy. We work to make the families’ experience more fun and memorable—bringing toys, laughter, and of course, smiles. It’s amazing that this group gives people the chance to be part of something that truly changes these kids’ lives.

The people I’ve met and worked with are incredibly talented, but even more than that, they are kind and welcoming to beginners like me. Whether I’m helping with small tasks, doing busy work, or getting the opportunity to observe procedures, every moment feels like a learning experience. Each role matters, and it’s inspiring to see the care, teamwork, and dedication that go into every patient.

It’s incredible to watch everyone come together under the leadership of Jay and Mimi, who bring us all together and make this mission possible, as well as our undercover Carrie Labadidi, whose organization, strength, and friendship guide us. A special shoutout to our PACU nurse Merry for her sarcastic humor and wise insight—she has been so lovely to get to know. The ward team, whom I have been working closely with, has also been so welcoming and wonderful. It is truly inspiring to see this group changing so many young lives. I’m so grateful to be part of Mending Faces and to experience the impact we’re making together.

Kalibo, Philippines Mission 2026: Screening Day

Our team has arrived! 51 children arrived to screening day- ready to meet the plastic surgeons that will perform their life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries!

Thoughts from Randy and Gale Knight, Outreach Volunteers:

In a quiet corner of the Philippines, where hope often travels long distances, a story unfolded as we planned out our medical mission providing free cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries with Mending Faces. We shared word of this outreach with the McKay family back home, who realized that a very young relative of theirs, living far away within The Philippines, needed this very procedure. What followed felt like a chain of small miracles: messages passed from person to person, plans coordinated across miles, and hearts moved to help. Through persistence, generosity, and perfect timing, the child was able to travel four hours to our mission site, arriving in time to receive this life-changing care.

Moments like these remind us that compassion has no borders and kindness often moves through ordinary people doing extraordinary things. For this child and family, the surgery meant more than medical treatment; it meant confidence, opportunity, and a future reshaped. For our team, it was a powerful affirmation of why we serve. Sometimes the greatest impact begins with a simple connection and when people come together with purpose, lives truly can be transformed.

After the Medical Mission: Thoughts From Volunteers

-The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others-

Thoughts from our Dominican Republic Medical Mission 2025 Volunteers:

Diane- I came to change a life - it was amazing.

Jane - I was just trying to find myself and my purpose. I learned early on that serving others is a good way of life. 

JD - I have been doing this for seven years. I love kids and find it very rewarding. 

Audrey- I feel so fortunate to have had the chance to serve, connect with incredible people, and witness the impact made on children’s lives. Leaving the DR with a full heart, renewed purpose, and deep gratitude for it all. “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Gandhi

Barb- I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this life-changing medical mission. As my first year attending, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but from the very beginning, I was welcomed with open arms and felt immediately at home. The group was so well blended, full of passionate, kind-hearted people, and I am honored to have shared this experience with each of you.

Witnessing the impact this mission had on so many children has shifted my perspective in ways I can’t fully describe. It made me realize how fortunate we are to have access to comforts and care that others may never know. I’ve come away with a renewed sense of purpose, humility, and gratitude.

To my friends and teammates—thank you for your generosity, your spirit, and for allowing me to be part of something so meaningful. This mission has changed me, and I will carry its lessons and memories with me always. I will never forget this experience, and I am already looking forward to the next opportunity to serve alongside all of you.

Dominican Mission 2025: 47 New Smiles!

Our Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Mission, from May 11-16th 2025, was a HUGE success. In just six days we treated 47 young patients, including 17 cleft lips and 33 cleft palates.A child born with a cleft lip and/or palate faces malnutrition, constant illness, and social stigma.  
47 children now have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives in their communities!

A big shout out to our  partners: Clinica Cruz Jiminian and FNE International, and all of the volunteers, facilitators, doctors and nurses! It takes a village to pull off a successful mission and this was truly the manifestation of unbelievable teamwork.

Thoughts from Outreach Volunteer, Barb Pickels

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this life-changing medical mission. As my first year attending, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but from the very beginning, I was welcomed with open arms and felt immediately at home.

Witnessing the impact this mission had on so many children has shifted my perspective in ways I can’t fully describe. It made me realize how fortunate we are to have access to comforts and care that others may never know. I’ve come away with a renewed sense of purpose, humility, and gratitude.

This mission has changed me, and I will carry its lessons and memories with me always. I will never forget this experience, and I am already looking forward to the next opportunity to serve."

Dominican Republic Mission 2025

May 10th: Arrival Day – Mission to the Dominican Republic

Today marked the beginning of our journey to bring life-changing surgeries to children in the Dominican Republic. Volunteer doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists, and support teams arrived and settled in, ready to make a difference. While today was focused on travel and getting acquainted with the area, we were deeply moved by the vibrant architecture, flavorful local cuisine, rhythmic music, and the warmth of the people. Tomorrow, the real work begins—a week of healing and hope.

May 11th: Screening Day Reflections

Today was intense. The elevator broke—with essential operating room equipment stuck inside. After finally retrieving it, we had to carry everything up two flights of stairs. Despite the chaos, families waited patiently in long lines, all in hopes of securing surgery for their children with mouth deformities.

The day may have started with hurdles, but it ended with hope. Screening is complete, and plans are in motion to help many children this week. Grateful for this mission and the strength of this team.

Miss Dominican Republic visiting patients waiting for cleft lip and/or palate surgery.

May 12th: Day 1 Update: A Promising Start

Our first day of surgeries went smoothly and successfully. The children were kept entertained, and their families were well cared for with meals and support as they waited. Already, we’re hearing heartfelt words of appreciation from parents who are seeing the difference the surgeries are making.

Tomorrow, we’ll visit the recovering children to check on their progress and extend a warm welcome to the new arrivals. So thankful to everyone who made today possible. Their efforts are already changing lives.

The 2024 Medical Mission in Biñan, Philippines: Mended Faces, Restored Hope

The 2024 Medical Mission in Biñan, Philippines: Mended Faces, Restored Hope

Our team of doctors, nurses, and admin, came from all over the world to bring new smiles and new hope to children and their families.

In total our team provided: 13 cleft lip surgeries, 25 cleft palate surgeries, one rhinoplasty, for a total of 38 patients! 

Thank you to the city of Biñan, and our partners in the Philippines. And THANK YOU for your support!
 
“After watching (my wife) Gale serve with Mending Faces over the years, I finally decided to step out of my comfort zone of serving locally downtown Detroit and join the team," said Randy, an Outreach volunteer. 

"I don't regret it for a minute. These beautiful people who have so little are so appreciative. Two favorite moments were meeting Zoey Veragay whose infectious smile and laugh cut right to my heart. The other time was the last day of our time here when I went to check on the kids in the morning and a little angel named Shawn Aziel Arciaga lurched at me to hold him. After 10 minutes, it took a few adults to pry him away - leaving me completely filled. This mission does far more good than people at home realize. I was so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone. Thank you for this amazing opportunity. This team rocks!” 

Day 4!

Day 4 of our Medical Mission in Biñan, Philippines was a busy day for the team! 

The surgeons completed 5 cleft lip surgeries and 5 cleft palate surgeries on 5 boys and 5 girls.
 
“The Mending Faces mission is truly amazing and life changing," said Joe, one of our volunteers. "It is beautiful work we are doing, simply wonderful. We are in a poverty stricken area of the Philippines and some of these families have taken multiple ferries from other islands just to get here. Handing these little angels off to their moms after they recover, is just so amazing. The parents' tears of love seeing their child's new smile for the first time is a moment I will never forget. One mom gave me the biggest hug and told me thank you for giving them hope and giving their baby hope. The Mending Faces Mission is forever impacting the world and making a true difference. It is an honor to be part of an organization with colleagues who care to make the world a better place.” 

Changing Lives one Smile at a Time

Our team in Biñan, Philippines are changing lives one smile at a time!

Meet Laiño, age 6. “We took Laiño out of school because he was being bullied,” his mom told us. “He has very bad trauma now from the kids at school teasing him. This (surgery) will change his life and ours forever.” 

More Mended Faces, Restored Hope:

Thoughts from our volunteers:

"I like seeing the patients that come back for their second surgeries and we get to see how their lives have already changed for the better," says Hiroko. "Knowing that we can help them again complete their forever journeys."

"I love getting to know the families and the kids," said Gale. "Being with the children that are scared to death and making them and their families feel comfortable and safe. I love going in the day after surgery the most, cleaning the kids’ surgical areas, and seeing that transformation. Seeing them see themselves is why I will forever serve."

Our Team is in the Philippines!

Our team is in Biñan, Philippines! Having just completed day two of the Medical Mission, our amazing VOLUNTEER nurses, doctors and administrators, have gifted new smiles to 14 children so far!

Some thoughts from our team:

“Seeing the tangible impact that this is making on these kids and families lives — It’s truly a beautiful thing.”- Milo

"Seeing the excitement on families and children’s faces made day one the best for me." - Tiffany 

"Starting the first case and getting your feet wet was most exciting. I’m ready for more!" - Mary 

Not only does a cleft repair improve the health and appearance of a child, but it also restores self-confidence and allows these children to live more fulfilling lives.

Thank you for your support helping us get to our destination and reach more children awaiting life-changing surgeries!

And That's A Wrap!

Day 5 of surgery is always bittersweet, as we experience a myriad of emotions as a team. We have formed strong bonds with our Dominican patients, families and hospital staff. A big shout out to all the volunteers, facilitators, doctors, nurses, medical students and volunteers! It takes a village to pull off a successful mission and this was truly the manifestation of unbelievable teamwork!

Our total patients served were: 53. This includes 16 lips (includes 3 bilateral), 37 palates (includes 4 fistulas), (with at least 2 Vomer flaps).

A Nurse's Day During the Medical Mission

By Teri Ballard (Volunteer Nurse with Mending Faces)

Today started with a waiting area full of wonderful Dominican children and their parents.  I noticed one mother who was sitting quietly in the corner.  She had a shy smile as she looked up at me.  Her child was the nearly the same image of her.  Not in the color of her eyes or the color of her hair but her child bore the same deformity she herself suffered from.  She had an abnormally large forehead her eyes are widely set apart her palette is malformed.  I knew the Mending Faces Missioners could help!  I suspect her child will still have a hard time in her life, but I also had a feeling that she would do better than most in with this deformity because she had a mother who loves her so much she found a way to get help.  I knew we couldn’t make her eyes set differently or her forehead smaller but we can help her child be able to swallow her food well so she can be well nourished and make her speech clear.  I saw the child in the operating room as she sat still and cooperative, waiting for her anesthesia team to give her anesthesia. Instead of fear, I saw in her eyes and understanding that this was all being done to help her. I know that her mother, having gone through the same experience, had prepared her well. After surgery she was incredibly tough. I think for her having a mother who suffered with the same condition and preparing her made this process of repair easier.  I am so glad that I am a part of this incredible group of humanitarians that help this child and so many others! 

Surgeries Begin!

Busy first day with 12 surgeries successfully completed, 3 lips and 9 palates, long day at hospital for all, starting around 8am and left the hospital at 7:30 pm!  Got back to the hotel and had a quick dinner and then get some good power sleep, to be ready for a busy day tomorrow.

We are witnessing great progress from the fruits of our labor already. The patients from yesterday were all discharged this morning as they were doing great, and feeling anxious to go home. Saying goodbye to patient families is always a little sad, but the tears are that of joy, not sadness.  Excited for tomorrow!

Screening Day: Dominican Republic Mission 2024

By Cathy McNamara, Mending Faces Advisory Board Member/ Dominican Republic Mission ‘24 Outreach Manager

The Mending Faces team has hit the ground running!  We arrived first thing this morning at the hospital, to a waiting room teaming with families, eagerly waiting for the chance to have their children’s lives impacted forever by transformative surgery.  One by one, we brought patients back to be screened by the surgeons, anesthesia, pediatricians and then scheduled for surgery during the week ahead.  It strikes me how each child is so uniquely affected, and each with a story of their own. The common theme, is how hopeful and grateful the parents are, and how truly beautiful each child is, in their own special way. So many families have so little, some have fled Haiti and left horrific circumstances.  But here there is an island of hope, and alongside the challenges and difficulties, we witness immense love and joy! 

Dominican Mission 2023: By Declan Brook, age 9

Mending Faces-Screening Day

Although my mother has been with Mending Faces for years this is my whole family’s first Mending Faces trip. My brother Bradan and I practiced making balloon animals from the balloons, our grandparents got us. My younger brother Liam did a puppet show and handed out little toys for the kids eagerly waiting for their chance to get checked. At first when we started making balloons for the kids at the hospital, no one paid attention to our hard work. Until one balloon sword Bradan was making popped. All the kids immediately turned to us got up and started asking for the balloons. In a few minutes everyone was waiting eagerly for their turn. It was so fun giving balloons to eager kids some my age. It came with one burden though it was so hard with my little fingers to tie the balloon. Some of the older kids helped us make balloons one girl blew up the balloon and then asked us to tie it so she could make something for a kid who didn’t have a balloon yet and sometimes she would give the balloon to me so I could make balloon animals. It made me feel so joyous to see how much kids took joy with only one little toy.

Day 2 at the hospital:

              On day 2 we brought the stuff animals we bought for all the kids at a hot toy warehouse the day before. When we brought the stuff animals to the kids and their family patiently waiting for the minute, they would bravely enter the operating room to get their cleft lip and\or pallet fixed by Mending Faces amazing group of doctors and nurses. It brings me lots of joy to see the kids play happily with the little teddy bears stuffed with fluff waiting to be filled with love and happiness. I thought to myself at that moment, “Wow, I am spoiled with toys.” The bears we gave them will probably be kept nice and clean and full of joy with all the different kids happy to have a toy to play with.

Day 3 at the hospital/ in the Operating Room:

              On day 3 we brought some more toys to kids who just came in eagerly waiting for their surgeries that day or the next day. We also gave them friendship bracelets and necklaces to work on while they waited patiently with their eager family in their room at the hospital. Early that morning while my brothers gave toys and played with the kids, my mom and I went to the Operating Room to watch our amazing nurses and surgeon’s fix kids cleft lip and\or pallet. I watched a pallet surgery. It was interesting to see how the surgeon separated the muscle and the tissue and then brought the two sides of the pallet together to fix the kid’s mouth. I threw up because I was watching the nurse suck the blood out of the kids’ mouth with a tube so the surgeon could still see. I followed the tube with my eyes until I saw a bucket of blood and that made me feel nauseous. I told my mom calmy, “I need a break.” “Okay come stand over here” she replied and then I exclaimed embarrassed,” I need to throw up.” So, she took me to the trash can and I puked. Then we went right back in the O.R.

In conclusion, this was an amazing experience and I figured out if my professional soccer career doesn’t work out, I want to be a surgeon.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, MAY 14-19

Our second annual Medical Mission to the Dominican Republic was an amazing week for the patients and volunteers alike. Our doctors, anesthesiologists, nurses, admin, a photographer, and speech therapist were part of a team that successfully restored hope and provided a brighter future to 43 patients: 22 boys and 21 girls, from 6 months all the way to 31 years old; including 22 cleft lips, 23 cleft palates, 2 fistulas, 3 vomer flaps, 1 rhinoplasty, and many dental procedures.

It’s because of the teamwork of our volunteers that came from around the world (the U.S., Europe, and the Dominican Republic), that made the mission a success. And of course, donors and supporters like YOU who help us bring more smiles to children with your generous donations.

Thank you for helping make this important mission possible and giving children the chance for a healthy and productive life.

Heartwarming

By Kailey Zaronias

Nothing could’ve prepared me for the heartwarming feeling of a young Dominican girl running into my arms with a giant grin. We hadn’t even started the surgeries - it was just screening day - and yet this girl and her family showered us with thanks and appreciation. I felt like I should be thanking them! These families are so brave and will do anything for their children’s health and happiness. It’s such an honor to be part of this mission to serve the Dominican children living with cleft lip and palate. Being able to speak Spanish and connect with this community has given me more joy and hope than I could’ve anticipated. As a soon-to-be medical student, being here is contributing to my overall purpose and excitement for my future in the global medical community. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the rest of the mission!

The Dominican Republic Mission is Underway: Screening Day and Day 1 of Surgeries

By Maya Brook, Mending Faces Executive Director

Although I have been with Mending Faces for years, this is my first Medical Mission that I have attended. I have always been behind the scenes- seeing photos and hearing the stories, so I have been excited to finally attend a medical mission in person (and bring along my three sons and husband.)

Screening day began early Sunday morning. Even though we all arrived at the hospital before 9 a.m., the halls were full of 47 patients and their families awaiting their turn for screening. As it was Mother’s Day, I thought about all the moms with their children. Eager, yet nervous, waiting to find out what day their child will have their life-changing surgery- a procedure that they have been waiting on for months, or even years. When a child is born with a cleft lip or palate deformity in the U.S., they start their first surgery when they are just a few months old. In the Dominican Republic, like much of the world, the families cannot afford the surgery, and so they wait for organizations like Mending Faces, to travel to their country and provide the surgery free of charge.

This means that some of our patients are just six months old, while others are teenagers. My three sons are 9, 7, and 5 years-old, so they fit right in with the mix of the ages of the patients on screening day. My two oldest, along with my husband, spent hours making balloon animals and swords for the kids. It was a great way to break the anxiety of waiting for a turn to meet with the nurses, dentist, and surgeon. There were plenty of giggles from all the kids as they waited for their balloon. One nine-year-old girl with a cleft lip, the same age as my oldest son, hung out near him much of the morning- eager to learn how to create balloon animals alongside him. Although my son only knows a handful of words in Spanish, they were able to communicate the way all kids do- through laughter and play.

My youngest and I handed out stuffed animals generously made by one of our past medical mission volunteers, Jahnavi, and her girl scout troop. The smiles on the moms and children as we handed out the stuffed animals with tiny hand-sewn Mending Faces t-shirts filled my heart.

While we were with the patients, the behind-the-scenes team of nurses and admin volunteers were busy unpacking the surgical tools and medicines and preparing the Operating Room for the surgeries the next day. I’m in even more awe of our volunteers than I was before. The time and dedication they each give is inspiring. Most of our volunteers come to one or more of our medical missions each year- donating their time and energy to be here as well as paying for all of their expenses. Those that have travelled to developing countries know first-hand the mental and physical toll it can take. And of course, the complete wonder of the world and beauty, too.

In the end we screened 47 patients and determined 44 were healthy enough and ready for their cleft lip and/or cleft palate surgery. 44 patients were given a day and time to return to the hospital this week for their surgery. Today we have 11 patients on the schedule that will be operated on by our two Colorado-based surgeons, Dr. Jeff Swail and Dr. Gary Snider. Some will also have dental care and extractions provided by Dr. Chris Biety, also from Colorado.

Years ago, when my middle son was just 6 months-old, he had to have surgery for a hernia. I remember learning he would need the surgery when he was just a couple of days old. It’s never easy to learn your child requires medical care. The day of the surgery I was so nervous- handing over my baby to a nurse and needing to trust that they would take care of him, provide a safe surgery, and return him to me. The hour or so that the surgery took felt like days. I can remember the intense feeling of gratitude and relief as the nurse came and placed him back into my arms after a successful surgery. My thoughts are with all of the moms today and this week that will place their child in the trust of our nurses and surgical team. I’m looking forward to returning to the hospital tomorrow and witnessing the relief of the mothers. They will leave the hospital with the knowledge that they have provided their child with much-needed surgery and a chance to lead a healthy and productive life. We may come from all backgrounds, parts of the world, and have different colors of skin, but all moms want the very best for their children.

Towards the end of the day yesterday, my middle son and I were standing next to a mom and her 10-year-old daughter. “Kids are making fun of her at school,” the mom tearfully told the translator who then told our surgeons. “We will fix her lip and show her beautiful smile,” the surgeon replied.

 It’s an honor to be part of this Medical Mission in the Dominican Republic and witness the gift of cleft lip and palate surgeries, not only for the children, but for the mothers, too.