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Picture Courtesy: (Werner Hills) Six-year-old Enzokuhle from Kwazakhele, Eastern Cape, is one of 25 young patients receiving life-changing reconstructive surgery during the First Smile Weekend, hosted by the Smile Foundation. She is accompanied by her mother, Noluvuyo Ntlazana.
(The Post News)- Six-year-old Enzokuhle Ntlazana from Kwazakhele in Nelson Mandela Bay joins 24 other children in receiving transformative surgeries during the groundbreaking Smile Weekend initiative from Friday to Sunday.
She endured a traumatic ordeal when a kettle of boiling water spilt onto her.
Following the devastating accident on June 9, 2023, Enzokuhle received emergency care at Dora Ngiza Hospital, including a critical debridement procedure to remove damaged tissue and promote healing.
Enzokuhle suffered severe burns, which left her with disfiguring scars on her right ear, neck, and the back of her head, causing permanent damage to her skin and tissue.
As a grade R student, Enzokuhle is at a tender age where she is increasingly aware of her appearance and the scars that cover her right ear, neck, and the back of her head.
Sadly, her peers often taunt her about her differences, making her a target of teasing and bullying.
This weekend will be transformative for Enzokuhle, as she will finally undergo reconstructive surgery at the Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, a life-changing procedure that will restore her smile and confidence.
She is now scheduled for two crucial procedures: ear reconstruction surgery and scalp tissue expander surgery to address her scarring.
These conditions often require a comprehensive approach, involving medical, surgical, and therapeutic interventions, to ensure optimal care and support.
During this groundbreaking First Smile Weekend event at the Provincial Hospital, 25 young children will undergo transformative corrective surgery, with a significant focus on correcting cleft lip and palate deformities.
This initiative coincides with July, which is recognised as Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month, offering a crucial opportunity to raise awareness about these conditions and highlight the importance of early intervention and treatment.
During Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month, Provincial Hospital, in collaboration with the Smile Foundation and sponsored by Easigas, is proud to host Smile Weekend, an initiative that sheds light on the impact of congenital facial and skull abnormalities on children’s lives.
Tarri Parfitt, Chief Executive of the Smile Foundation, expressed heartfelt appreciation.
“We are profoundly grateful for your unwavering support. Your selflessness and dedication to our initiatives are a constant source of inspiration, and we cannot thank you enough for your kindness and commitment to our cause.”
Provincial Hospital has a rich history of hosting Smile Week initiatives, but this weekend’s event marks a milestone as it will be hosting for the first time back-to-back surgeries.
What makes this occasion even more remarkable is that it coincides with Mandela Month, a time dedicated to honouring the legacy of Nelson Mandela through selfless acts and community service.
Tarri Parfitt, Chief Executive of the Smile Foundation, expressed appreciation to the surgeons, medical professionals, and hospital staff who selflessly dedicated their weekend to transforming the lives of children in need.
“We are profoundly grateful for your tireless efforts,” she said.
“Your unwavering commitment to our initiatives is a testament to your remarkable compassion and skill. You are the true champions of Madiba’s legacy, and your dedication enables us to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of underprivileged children,” she added.
She also extended her gratitude to Easigas for their generous sponsorship of the weekend’s surgeries.
Enzokuhle’s family shared their joy and anticipation, expressing their heartfelt thanks for the upcoming surgery.
“We are overjoyed and grateful for this life-changing opportunity, We can’t wait to see our little girl smile with confidence and feel like herself again, without the burden of her condition.”
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