Mérida, Yucatán — The 25th edition of free cleft lip and palate surgery campaigns will take place from May 18 to 23 at the Agustín O’Horán General Hospital, as part of a collaborative effort between the Sistema para el Desarrollo Integral de la Familia (DIF) Yucatán, the Mérida Rotary Club, and the Sharing Smiles Foundation.
Restoring Smiles and Hope
The initiative, supported by the Government of the Maya Renaissance under Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena, aims to enhance the quality of life and well-being of children and adolescents in the state.
Wendy Méndez Naal, Honorary President of DIF Yucatán, emphasized the transformative impact of the program, stating, "Today marks the beginning of a rebirth with love for dozens of Yucatecans—not just through medical care but by planting hope in their hearts and restoring smiles and new opportunities."
Méndez Naal praised the Rotary Club for its altruistic efforts, which have improved the lives of hundreds over the years. "Yucatán is taking another step toward a future where every child and young person can speak clearly, smile with pride, and live with dignity," she added.
A Collective Effort
Financed by Rotary International, the campaign will benefit over 50 patients, with a total investment of $138,000 USD. Itzel Ibáñez Patiño, President of the Mérida Rotary Club, acknowledged DIF Yucatán’s logistical support, including outreach, transportation, and patient coordination.
The press conference was attended by Shirley Castillo Sánchez, Director of DIF Yucatán; Hernando Leo Valenzuela, Sharing Smiles representative in Yucatán; Doris Alejandra Núñez, Director of Social Assistance at DIF Yucatán; and Dr. María del Socorro Flores Méndez, plastic surgeon at the Agustín O’Horán Hospital’s cleft lip and palate clinic.
The program underscores the ongoing commitment of government and civil society to provide critical medical care to underserved communities in Yucatán.
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