From Cleft to Confidence: Pravallika’s Tale

Sujatha and Sanga eagerly awaited the arrival of their first child. Sujatha diligently took her prenatal vitamins, attended all check-ups, and had regular ultrasounds. Despite their limited resources, Sanga did everything he could to meet his wife’s nutritional needs, ensuring the baby grew strong and healthy for a smooth delivery.

The day finally arrived, and Sujatha’s labor went smoothly. The doctor confirmed it was a baby girl. After what felt like an eternity of waiting and anticipation, the nurse gently placed the newborn in Sujatha’s arms. As Sujatha gazed lovingly at her baby’s tiny face, her eyes paused on an unexpected sight: a gap running across her baby’s lip and reaching towards her nose. Sujatha’s voice choked; she felt breathless. “Your baby has a cleft,” the nurse confirmed.

Thankfully, the family remained supportive, but her husband was deeply concerned. He was devastated by the fact that he did not have the financial means to afford the surgery. Little Pravallika’s daily life was a constant struggle — feeding was difficult, and she wasn’t gaining weight.

Just when it felt like all hope was lost, they discovered Smile Train’s cleft treatment program through a referral at a local hospital. This discovery felt like a blessing. At Smile Train partner Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute in Hyderabad, the staff greeted them with warmth and reassured them that Pravallika would soon be able to lead a healthy life. The fact that the surgery would be fully funded by Smile Train was music to their ears.

As the procedure concluded successfully, a wave of relief washed over the family. Pravallika's transformation was immediately visible and miraculous. Pravallika's mother was overjoyed to see her daughter's new smile. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw her after the surgery,” Sujatha recalls.

Today, Pravallika is a second grader, her days filled with joy, learning, and a newfound passion for dance and acting. Her parents are deeply grateful to Smile Train for giving their daughter a second chance at life.

Pravallika’s smile journey is a tale of what happens when hope, resilience, unconditional love, and support from family and community converge with timely medical intervention. It is a story that reminds us of our collective responsibility to uplift those in need, offer a helping hand, and make a difference where we can.