EAST LONDON- The Smile Foundation in collaboration with Eastern Cape Department of Health held a media briefing on 21st July 2025 at Frere Hospital in East London, to mark the beginning of the surgical week( 21-27 July 2025) focusing on life-changing surgeries. Children with cleft lip and palate, burns, and congenital conditions.
The media briefing brought together specialists, healthcare professionals and sponsors to share patient stories and highlight the program’s impact.
According to Eastern Cape Department of Health Head of department(HoD) Dr. Rolene Wagner emphasized that this initiative is part of an ongoing partnership that extends beyond Frere Hospital to other facilities across the province. “The impact of this work goes far beyond the operating room, every child who receives a procedure has a family whose burdens are lightened and whose future is brightened,” she said.
Head of plastic Surgery Dr. Van der Walt added that despite not exceeding expectations, this initiative is still a success. “It’s not easy to transfer skills and knowledge but every step forward is a win for me.”
Dr Walt led a team of surgeons with 14 patients lined up for complex surgeries that each take around 2-3 hours to complete. “Every child who undergoes surgery is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our team,” he said. He also added highlighting the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in delivering world-class healthcare services.
Furthermore, Chief Operating Officer(COO) at Smile Foundation Sylvia Passoni, expressed gratitude to the foundation’s partners and sponsors, including Spur restaurant, Milky Lane and Discovery healthcare whose support has enabled the organisation to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in need.
Passoni had this to say, “We work in collaboration with the department of health, doners and the hospitals to fill gaps where needed and also make sure that the backlog of surgeries are addressed in all the provinces.”
In addition Spur restaurant manager in East London & Qonce Andy Brewis highlighted the company’s philosophy stating, “We believe that you cannot have happy businesses in unhappy communities. Making a difference in the lives of children and families is not just a corporate social responsibility, but a fundamental aspect of our business philosophy.”
This commitment to giving back to the community is evident in their support for the Smile Foundation’s work.
One of the patient(young boy-6 years) from Xhorha who is scheduled to undergo surgery, his mother expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Smile Foundation and Frere Hospital. “We are so thankful for this opportunity, our child’s future is looking brighter, and we can’t thank you enough for giving us hope.”
Her words echoed the sentiments of many families who have benefited from the foundation’s work.
The Smile Foundation’s efforts supported by its partners and sponsors, are making a tangible difference in the lives of children and families bringing hope and healing to those who need it most. As the specialized surgical week comes to a close the Smile Foundation and Frere Hospital look forward to continuing their partnership and making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in need.
With the support of their partners and sponsors, they are confident that their work will continue to bring hope, healing and brighter futures to those who need it most.
Furthermore, hospital provided key insights into the programme, sharing patient stories and highlighting the broader impact on the healthcare community. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of specialized surgical care and the hospital’s commitment to delivering world-class healthcare services.
Photographs: Siyolise Silayi
Siyolise Silayi
23 July 2025
