In a compassionate medical outreach, 20 children from Mindanao were beneficiaries of free craniofacial surgery, conducted at the United Davao Specialists Hospital and Medical Center, Inc. in Davao City. The surgeries, which took place from November 18 to 21, were part of a mission spearheaded by Taiwan’s Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation (NCF). A young patient from Tagum City, Davao del Norte, was among those who received life-changing treatment.
Lun-Jou Lo, the mission’s lead surgeon, emphasized the strategic choice of Davao for its accessibility, enabling the team to assist a larger number of children. Prior to the surgeries, each child underwent thorough assessments to ensure their health, safety, and nutritional status were suitable for the procedure. Lo stressed the importance of balancing the desire to help as many patients as possible with the need to manage health risks carefully.
Now in its second year, the initiative not only provides surgical interventions but also aims to increase public awareness about craniofacial conditions, encouraging more families to seek help. All treatments, including post-operative care, are offered free of charge.
Dustin Teng-shi Yang, a representative from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, spoke on the broader implications of craniofacial conditions, such as cleft lip and palate, which go beyond aesthetics to impact eating, speech, social interactions, and mental health. He underscored the necessity of surgery for these children to lead normal lives and integrate into society.
The NCF’s approach is comprehensive, offering not just surgical solutions but also psychological, social, and medical support. Additionally, the foundation is committed to training medical professionals globally to further its mission.
Parents expressed immense gratitude for the program. Noemi Lorenzana from Tagum City shared how the surgery addressed her son’s multiple facial deformities, providing not just financial relief but also crucial medical support. Venus Celocia from General Santos City recounted her experience with her four-month-old daughter, who was born with a cleft lip and received free surgery after reaching out to NCF.
Dr. Dax Carlo Pascasio, the Filipino team leader for NCF, extended an invitation to families nationwide to utilize the program, noting that it is accessible to patients from across the country who can travel to Davao.
This initiative highlights the critical role of accessible healthcare in improving the lives of children with congenital craniofacial conditions, fostering their integration and enhancing their quality of life.