In preparation for the visit, we as club leaders worked alongside our fellow 25 dedicated student club members to launch a heartfelt initiative known as “Smile Bags.”

Preparing for the visit

In preparation for the visit, club leaders worked alongside our fellow 25 dedicated student club members to launch a heartfelt initiative known as “Smile Bags”.
These care packages were thoughtfully put together with items such as mirrors, crayons, coloring books, stress balls, sharpeners, and erasers.

The goal was simple yet powerful: to bring comfort, joy, and a sense of normalcy to patients as they await surgery. All items were purchased through fundraising efforts organized by the club over the year, reflecting a sustained commitment to service.

The visit itself

Upon arrival at the hospital, we first visited the pre-surgery ward. There, we distributed the Smile Bags and spent time engaging with the patients and their families. We got to learn patients’ names, shared stories, and offered words of encouragement. These moments created genuine connections and highlighted the importance of empathy in service.
The visit continued with a guided opportunity to observe the operating environment. After carefully following all required safety and hygiene procedures, we were able to see the
operating rooms where surgeries were taking place. This experience provided a deeper understanding of the precision, care, and collaboration involved in each procedure.
Following this, we engaged in insightful discussions with a team of surgeons, doctors, pediatricians, and anesthesiologists from both Sweden and Ghana. These professionals shared
their expertise, explained surgical procedures, and emphasized the profound impact of their work on patients and families. Their dedication left a lasting impression on all who attended.

After the visit

The visit concluded with a strong sense of purpose and inspiration. We left feeling more empowered to continue advocating for and supporting cleft patients, with renewed motivation to expand their initiatives and deepen their impact.
This experience served as a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness like a Smile Bag or a shared conversation can make a meaningful difference in someone’s journey.