“We want him to have a good life.”

This is what Romer’s family told us earlier this year during Alliance for Smiles’ mission to Guaranda, Ecuador. It’s a simple wish – one that parents everywhere share.

But for Romer, that wish has not come easily.

At just six years old, he has already undergone two surgeries to repair his cleft palate. When we met him, his family was hoping his third surgery would be the last, so he could finally grow up without the speech challenges he has struggled with for years.

Romer’s story is not unique.

Globally, cleft lip and cleft palate are among the most common birth differences, affecting thousands of children each year. In countries like the United States, treatment is often accessible and timely. But in many parts of the world, access to cleft care is far from guaranteed.

For families like Romer’s, treatment can mean multiple surgeries, ongoing speech therapy, and financial costs that are simply out of reach. Without care, children may face challenges with speaking, eating, hearing, and social inclusion.

Why Cleft Awareness Month Matters

Cleft Awareness Month is more than a moment of recognition, it’s a call to action.

This July, we have an opportunity not just to raise awareness, but to change outcomes. Together, we can ensure that more children like Romer receive the care they need to speak clearly, eat properly, and live with confidence.

How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to make an impact this month:

-Share stories that matter
Throughout July, we’ll be sharing powerful patient stories like Romer’s across our social media channels. Help amplify these voices by sharing them with your network.

-Tell your story
Have you been part of an Alliance for Smiles mission? Share a memory – a patient, a moment, or a story that stayed with you. Email us at info@allianceforsmiles.org or tag us on social media.

-Bring people together
Host a Cleft Awareness Month event in your community. Whether it’s a fundraiser, dinner, game night, or bake sale, every effort helps spark conversation and drive impact. We’re continually inspired by the creativity and generosity of our supporters like the annual BBQ hosted by Tina & Mike Fischlin and Debbie & Ronnie Kent, and the Golf For A Cause: Scramble for Smiles tournament organized by the Amazing Grace Project.

Awareness Is Just the Beginning
This July, awareness is only the first step. Real change happens when awareness turns into action – when a shared story becomes a shared commitment to making a difference. For children like Romer, a “good life” starts with something as simple, and as powerful, as a smile.

Join us in making that possible.