The following contains extracts from an article printed recently in The Standard, a Kenyan newspaper, about the impact of cleft lip on children and their families, and the surgical treatment available at DMH (used with permission).

In communities across Kenya, children born with cleft lip or palate often face deep stigma, painful myths, and emotional isolation. Many families are told that their children are “cursed” or a “bad omen,” leaving parents—especially mothers and grandmothers—carrying the weight of shame, fear, and uncertainty.

Eunice is a grandmother caring for two grandchildren born with clefts. Her quiet strength reflects the experience of many caregivers who refuse to give up on the children entrusted to them. Despite cultural misconceptions and financial barriers, they continue to fight for dignity, acceptance, and medical help. The support provided by DMH and its supporters has eased a burden she could never have managed alone. “I am a widow and old age is catching up with me. How would I have managed? All the bills are catered for by the hospital. It is encouraging to know that good people still exist in this world.”

One in 700 babies worldwide is born with a cleft lip and/or palate. The condition can cause difficulties with feeding, breathing, hearing and speaking. Without treatment, many affected children may struggle to eat properly, attend school, make friends or secure employment later in life. Dr Bati, a cleft surgeon treating patients at DMH, emphasises that clefts can be corrected: “The encouraging thing is that these deformities can be repaired and patients can go on to live normal lives.”