FROM LIP TO PALATE: THURA’S TRANSFORMATION

YANGON, MYANMAR | AUGUST 2018

The first time Smile Asia met Thura Min Myat, he was just over a year old – a small boy with a cleft lip, carried lovingly by his grandmothers to our mission in Taunggyi in March 2018. Four months later, when he returned for his second surgery, we were amazed to see how much he had grown: taller, stronger, and already transformed by the beautiful results of his first operation.

From their home in Nyaung Tone Township, Thura and his two grandmothers travelled two and a half hours by bus to reach the mission site. This time, he was back for his cleft palate surgery. Having seen how well his lip had healed, the family felt more hopeful, though the worry never quite disappears. “We are a little scared, but we know he will be fine this time round,” said his paternal grandmother, Daw Ohn Than, as she waited anxiously outside the operating room.

Before and after: Thura in March before his lip surgery (left), and in August (right), healed beautifully

Though his parents could not be by his side as they had travelled to Thailand for work to support the family, Thura was never alone. Both grandmothers accompanied him, watching over him tenderly, comforting him through his treatment, and sharing updates with his parents every day. Their devotion was a moving reminder of the strength of family, even in the face of hardship.

On 27 August 2018, Thura successfully received his cleft palate surgery. By the very next day, he was already up, smiling, and playing happily with the volunteers. His resilience, together with the love of his grandmothers, left a lasting impression on everyone who met him.

For Smile Asia, it was an honour to once again be part of Thura’s journey and we wish him a bright future ahead.