Smiles for Kids Blog
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Girl Honored For Creating Smiles
Recognizing that need and having a cleft palate herself, 11-year-old Paige Atkinson has stepped up in a big way to help and was honored for her efforts Friday at St. John's Lutheran School.
Atkinson has raised more than $50,000 to provide surgeries for over 200 kids in other countries born with cleft lips and palates.
A cause close to Atkinson's heart since she has undergone several surgeries herself to correct her cleft palate
"In America, we are so privileged because if they have a cleft they can get if fixed right away," said Atkinson. "But in Africa or in Asia, sometimes they die or have to go through all their life being shunned because of their mouth. I wanted to be able to help out and give them the same chance we have in America."
Via KERO 23