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Maurice's medical journey began in 2015 when he developed a tumor on his nose at age two. He underwent two surgeries in Kinshasa in 2016 and 2017, but due to the lack of finances he couldn't receive further treatment after the tumor recurred and grew. In 2019, Maurice's case caught the attention of Operation Smile when his Mother brought him to a cleft surgical programme in the DRC. The organization, along with volunteers, provided nutritional and medical support to prepare him for surgery through Operation Smile’s World Care Program. South African specialist Cleft and Cranionfacial Surgeon, Prof Anil Madaree agreed to perform the surgery in South Africa, but the surgery was delayed due to COVID-19.

In 2022, Operation Smile facilitated an application from Minister of Health DRC to South African Minister of Health for Maurice to receive surgery in South Africa. Finally with all the necessary permissions and visas in place, in June 2023 he travelled with his Mother to Durban, South Africa for surgery, where a team led by Professor Anil Madaree successfully removed the tumor and reconstructed his face. After recovering in the ICU, Maurice returned to the DRC in August 2023. Operation Smile continued to support him by securing housing, enrolling him in school, and helping his family establish a more stable future.

“I am moved with so many emotions as I am writing to you now.  I am so thankful and speechless at the same time.  I have seen Maurice after his surgery in South Africa, and he is a completely changed person.  He has his face back.  While he was rejected and his mother had given up, Operation Smile gave them hope.  A journey that started long back when he was only 3 years old and look at him now living the dream 7 years later.  His life has taken a turn now and his future and destiny are now assured.” Operation Smile DRC Program Manager, Alex Cinamula

Deep and sincere thanks to everyone who has helped achieve this incredible transformation of Maurice’s life. 
 
“We have given Maurice a gift he would had been very unlikely to receive, had it not been because of our caring ways, diverse talents, and desire to act on behalf of a child in need.”  Ruben Ayala