A Smile Reborn: The Journey of Blessings

At just five years old, Blessings has already shown more courage than many do in a lifetime. Born with a cleft lip and palate, his life began with unique challenges ones that could’ve broken many, but instead shaped his story into one of strength, resilience, and love.

When Blessings was just five months old, he was taken into theatre for his first cleft lip repair surgery through the generous support of Smile Train, a global organization that provides free cleft treatment for children in need. Because he was still a baby, only the outer lip could be stitched at the time. The hole inside his palate and gut remained, making feeding and speech a daily struggle.

Despite this, Blessings began to grow, and his energy and spirit shone through. During the COVID-19 pandemic, schools across the country were closed, and like many children, Blessings needed care and support. That’s when I stepped in.

I had never taken care of a child before. He was the first baby I had ever spent so much time with, and I wasn’t sure I would do it right. But in those nine months, something incredible happened we grew close. He became more than just a child I was helping; he became family. He couldn’t pronounce my name, Claire, so he lovingly called me “Niaa.” I still smile every time I hear it.

During that time, we formed a deep bond. We were inseparable. I learned how to feed him, comfort him when he cried, and help him through the frustrations of not being able to speak clearly. His spirit, even when struggling with his speech and eating, was unbreakable.

In 2021, I returned to school, but our connection never faded. Every Sunday, Blessings would come home, and my mother and I would care for him like we always had. He filled our house with laughter, determination, and pure love.

Then came 2024 a turning point. Blessings underwent his second surgery at St. Francis Hospital, again supported by *Smile Train*. This time, it was to repair the hole inside his palate. Alongside 100 other brave children, he entered surgery, but his recovery was difficult. For two long weeks, he couldn’t eat solid food. Watching him in pain broke my heart. I cried with him, for him. We couldn’t even eat in public because he would watch us silently, his little body aching with hunger.

When we returned for a clinic review, we were told the palate hadn’t completely joined. He would need another surgery.

Eight months later, we returned. And this time, Smile Train made it count. His palate was fully repaired. Though the healing process was slow, the result was life-changing. Blessings could now eat, smile, and speak more freely. He looked brighter. Happier.

Blessings is just one child among thousands whose lives have been touched by Smile Train. But his story stands out to me because I lived it with him. I saw the struggle, the pain, the love, and the triumph. He is more than a cleft patient he is a warrior, a symbol of hope, and a child whose smile now shines brighter than ever.
This journey has taught me that love, patience, and a little help from those who care can truly change a life. Blessings is my hero. And thanks to Smile Train, the world now gets to see the full beauty of his smile.