Life has not been easy for Oritika Nembilwe, now aged 8 months, who was born with goldenhar syndrome, a rare craniofacial condition.
In addition, her mother Pembelani Tuwani she faced immense difficulties as a single parent, often struggling with the lack of understanding and support from her community.
“From the day Oritika was born, the big opening in her lip has made feeding very difficult. This has been a worry for me as she needs all the nourishment she can get to build her strength," she said.
And people living in her area have not been supportive of their situation. “They don’t understand Oritika’s health problems and they have put a lot of pressure on me and have been very difficult to deal with,” she said.
She further said this has stressed both her and the her child terribly, but she did not not give up.
“I must stay strong and positive for my little girl, and I know that with the help of the Smile Foundation and the kind doctors who will be helping her after her operation, she will have a happy and healthy future,” she added.
But good news is that Oritika yesterday got a cleft lip repair at Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria as part of Smile Week, which ends on Friday. During this period, hope and healing is being provided to 12 young patients in need.
The event is sponsored by Milky Lane, with the purpose to transform the lives of young patients and their families.
Milky Lane has not only provided financial support but has also run two fundraising campaigns to ensure that children such as Oritika receive the care they need.
Milky Lane marketing manager Patricia Kasuka said bringing smiles to children’s faces has taken on a whole new meaning to them through this Smile Week initiative.
“We are honoured to be playing a part in helping those children who so desperately need medical intervention and care,” she said.
She added that they were inspired by the selfless people involved in this initiative and by the incredible work that Smile Foundation is doing to make a real difference in children’s lives.
CEO of Smile Foundation Tarri Parfitt expressed her gratitude for Milky Lane's ongoing support.
“Every child deserves to feel secure, loved, and capable of anything this is the very foundation upon which dreams are realized.,” she said.
She added that as the Smile foundation they are deeply moved by the financial support of Milky Lane.
“Their generosity is helping to make these life-changing transformations during this Smile Week possible,” she added.
She also praised the medical professionals at Steve Biko. “To the extraordinary team of surgeons, medical professionals, and hospital staff at Steve Biko Academic Hospital your steadfast commitment is truly awe-inspiring , you are giving these children and their parents the precious gift of a new beginning, a chance to face life with a renewed sense of hope and a smile that shines brighter than ever.” she said.