Smile Train Uplifts and Brightens Smiles

Iva Ballou

My name is Iva Ballou. I was born in Jacksonville, Florida with a bilateral cleft lip and palate, a congenital condition where a child is born with an opening in the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth, which occurs when facial structures don’t fully develop during pregnancy. In my case, it also extended to my eye, leaving me blind in my left eye. At just six weeks old, I underwent my first surgery, marking the beginning of a long medical journey. Over the years, I had more than 12 corrective surgeries, receiving treatment from Dr. John Obe at the Nemours Cleft Palate Clinic, and other specialized cleft professionals.

 Growing up with a facial difference was challenging. I experienced stares, whispers, and even outright ridicule. However, my parents and brother instilled in me a deep sense of self-worth, teaching me that everyone has something that makes them unique. Their unwavering support, along with my involvement in activities like Bethel Baptist’s Girl Scouts troop, choir, and Journey into Womanhood, allowed me to build confidence and lifelong friendships. Among them were the Fantastic Four plus One, a group of friends who stood by me through every challenge and triumph.

Despite the excellent medical care I received, I became increasingly aware that many children around the world do not have access to the same opportunities. That realization led me to Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused organization, that has dedicated the past 25 years to changing lives through free cleft surgery and comprehensive cleft care.

 Smile Train operates in 75+ countries, empowering local medical professionals with training, funding, and resources to provide life-changing cleft treatment. This “teach a person to fish” model ensures sustainable, long-term impact within communities. Since their inception in 1999, Smile Train has supported more than two million free cleft surgeries worldwide, transforming the lives of children and families who otherwise would not have access to care.

 Now, as a part of Smile Train, I have the privilege of working to support cleft-affected individuals and families. Our goal is not only to provide surgeries but also to change the narrative around facial differences. We are working toward a future where cleft care is universally accessible, and where children born with clefts are met with compassion rather than discomfort or stigma.

 In the future, I am hopeful for a world where no child has to grow up feeling different because of a cleft. Through continued education, advocacy, and medical advancements, we are shifting perspectives and making sure that every child has the opportunity to smile confidently. My journey has come full circle—from a child born with a cleft to someone who now helps others navigate that same journey. Together, we are changing lives, one smile at a time.

For more info visit: www.smiletrain.org

 

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