Felipe and I have recently accepted a challenge to support Operation Smile and help transform the lives of individuals living with a cleft condition. The child with cleft leads us back to their community and shows the world that they have little hope of getting basic surgery or care, simply because of where they were born. 

This challenge will take our collective support to the next level─both literally and figuratively─as we are joining Trek for Smiles and summiting Mount Kilimanjaro in September 2025.  A small group of us will trek about 80km over eight days to an elevation of 19,341ft.

What makes this endeavour extra special for us, beyond the physical challenge, is that Tanzania is a new entry country for Operation Smile The funds we raise through Trek for Smiles will not only deliver safe, effective and timely surgery and specialized care, it will provide essential support focused on training and education for healthcare workers.

This volunteer-delivered global team has provided urgently needed surgical care to over 360,000 people worldwide living with cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial conditions. While a cleft surgery can cost as little as $240 and take as few as 45 minutes, the impact of that surgery and the subsequent comprehensive care provided changes that child’s life, and ensures basic surgery is available close to home – for everyone who lives there.

We can't do this Trek alone.  We first want to raise as much money as possible to help children waiting for the day, they too will have their surgery. We set our first goal at $5,000 and really hope that, with your help, we can exceed it.  

Please consider any support you can pledge to our Trek for Smiles campaign. Simply click the “Donate Now” button to make a tax-deductible donation by credit card. We promise to keep you close on my Trek every step of the way.

With love and gratitude to you all!