Oti Chooses Bravery

At 17 years old, he decided it was time for cleft care

Oti before cleft surgery

Kennedy was the only member of his family with a cleft.

Everyone in his community treated him with kindness; they even gave him a nickname, “Oti”. But his cleft made him shy, so he avoided social gatherings.

Oti knew cleft care existed, but he was afraid. The thought of going under for surgery was simply too much for him.

When he was 17, Oti heard about a local centre that provided cleft care 100 % free, thanks to Smile Train.

I can’t pass up this chance, he thought.

Oti smiles and strikes a pose for the camera
Oti changed his mind about cleft surgery when he heard about Smile Train-sponsored care

When Oti arrived at the hospital, he was surprised to see very young children who, like him, were also there for cleft procedures.

At last, the time came for Oti’s surgery. His old fears began to creep in. But he chose to be brave.

And his surgery was a complete success!

Oti smiles for the camera
Oti’s smile

Today, Oti speaks to others with a newfound sense of confidence, his shyness a thing of the past. He and his family are so grateful for his life-changing, Smile Train-sponsored care.

Oti holds up a photo of himself from before cleft treatment
Oti before and after cleft treatment

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