Mending Faces

Our volunteers are heading home from the Dominican Republic after a week of surgeries. Tired, yet Hearts full. ♥️ We restored hope and provided a brighter future for children whose lives were burdened by cleft lip and cleft palate. .international

Day 5 – Discharges and More Surgeries, Tracy Dailey

Today brought 4 more smiling faces discharged home and 3 more facial surgeries completed, along with several additional outpatient procedures throughout the day.

By now, what once felt like organized chaos has transformed into a beautiful rhythm. Every part of the team moves together with such purpose and compassion—from pre-op, to the operating room, to recovery, to the ward. The coordination behind the scenes is incredible to witness, and somehow each day seems to run even smoother than the last.

As the mission begins wrapping up tomorrow, there’s a bittersweet feeling settling in. In just a few short days, so many lives have been touched through the skill, compassion, and teamwork of this incredible group of volunteers and healthcare professionals.

The resilience of these children, the gratitude of the families, and the joy that follows each successful surgery has been unforgettable to witness. So much hope, healing, and heart packed into a single week.

Our Dominican Republic 🇩🇴 mission 2026 has began! On Saturday our team arrived, and yesterday was screening day. From our volunteer, Tracy Dailey: Day 1 — Screening Day ❤️

Today we screened 24 precious children, including a few sweet faces returning from last year. Seeing their bright eyes and hopeful smiles reminds us why this work matters so much.

On Mother’s Day, it feels especially meaningful to witness the incredible love, patience, and strength of these moms and grandmothers as they bring their babies to be scheduled for life-changing surgeries this week.

Grateful to be here and honored to be part of their journey. ❤️ .international