Firms ink MoU to keep kids smiling
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Nation Multimedia Group (NMG) and 16 other leading companies have joined forces to aid children in need of treatment to correct cleft lips and palates through Operation Smile Foundation (Thailand)'s "Bright Smiles & Happy Hearts" campaign.
Such treatments can change the lives of patients for the better.
Representatives from the 17 companies signed a memorandum of understanding yesterday on the campaign at Okura Bangkok Hotel.
Among the participating companies are Total Access Communication (DTAC), Krungthai Card, Bangkok Bank, Tisco Financial Group, and Jaymart.
In Thailand, about 2,000 babies are born with a cleft lip or palate each year. Such symptoms may lead to other health problems related to hearing, ear infections and speech impediments.
Since its establishment in 2001, Operation Smile Foundation (Thailand) has delivered help to underprivileged children who suffer from these disorders. To date, its assistance has reached more than 8,000 kids.
The Bright Smiles & Happy Hearts campaign seeks to ensure that patients with cleft lips or palates continue to get comprehensive care after undergoing free surgery. For example, they may need help with speech therapy or dental services.
Kevin Beauvais, chairman of Operation Smile Foundation (Thailand), said it now wanted to focus on creating a sustainable system.
“For example, in collaboration with DTAC, we can develop applications and programs that provide updated and correct information” for the care of the patients, he said.
At yesterday’s ceremony Chadleen Alberth Lacdo-o from the Philippines, shared her inspirational story about how Operation Smile changed her life. Though born with a cleft palate, she is now capable of pursuing her dream of becoming a singer. Last year, she won a major singing competition in the Philippines.
