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Operation Smile Launches 'We Build Hope'

Operation Smile, a prominent global nonprofit focused on enhancing access to surgical care, has introduced its latest campaign, 'We Build Hope'. This initiative is primarily aimed at addressing the urgent need for surgical accessibility and underscores the importance of viewing surgical scars not as imperfections, but as powerful symbols of survival and resilience.

A New Perspective on Surgical Scars

In a world where over five billion people lack access to safe, affordable surgical care, the 'We Build Hope' campaign aims to redefine the narrative around surgical scars. Rather than hiding these visible reminders of life-saving procedures, the initiative encourages individuals to see them as badges of honor and proof of the essential healthcare that is often unavailable due to systemic barriers like inadequate health infrastructure, lengthy distances to medical facilities, and a lack of trained surgical professionals.

Kathy Magee, Co-Founder and CEO of Operation Smile, emphasizes, "A surgical scar signifies that one has accessed care, a privilege not afforded to many globally. We Build Hope prompts society to change its perception of what a scar represents, transforming it into a story of dignity and care. This campaign re-centers humanity in discussions about surgical access."

Celebrating Individual Stories and Systemic Change

Developed in collaboration with the global creative agency 72andSunny, the campaign is rich in emotional storytelling, capturing the experiences of patients and healthcare providers alike. It includes a compelling anthem film that showcases real patients discussing their scars, underscoring their journeys toward regaining a life enriched with opportunities that were previously out of reach. Each scar tells a unique tale of strength and hope, making the case for why everyone deserves access to surgical care.

Matt Jarvis, Chairman of 72andSunny, reflects on the staggering statistic that two-thirds of the world's population cannot access safe surgeries. He states, "Reframing scars as symbols of what went right opens a new dialogue, highlighting the transformative power of surgery—accessibility should not be limited to a few but should be a standard right for all."

The creative elements of the campaign extend beyond just storytelling; they include a global microsite where viewers can explore patient stories and see how surgical interventions have positively impacted their lives. This online platform serves to galvanize support for the broader goals of Operation Smile, advocating for systemic change in healthcare access.

Operation 100: Strengthening Local Health Systems

'We Build Hope' aligns with Operation Smile's comprehensive strategy, Operation 100, which is geared toward fortifying local hospitals and training surgical teams to provide safe care within communities. By targeting a hundred hospitals worldwide and training local surgical teams, Operation Smile aims to ensure that surgical care is accessible within a two-hour reach for nearly half a billion people, specifically focusing on those with cleft conditions.

The initiative builds on decades of work by Operation Smile and its partners, fostering local engagement and collaboration with health ministries, medical institutions, and non-profits to broaden healthcare access and build resilient healthcare systems. Magee emphasizes the importance of this mission, noting, "For far too long, patients have traveled immense distances only to receive inadequate treatment. Operation 100 is a pivotal step towards changing this narrative, empowering every patient through 'We Build Hope'. Each scar embodies the fulfillment of access and the hope we strive to provide universally."

The Broader Impact of 'We Build Hope'

'We Build Hope' is not just about individual journeys; it is an initiative aiming for transformative impact across families, communities, and whole healthcare networks. As Operation Smile continues its quest to ensure equitable healthcare, the campaign serves as a powerful reminder of the human stories behind the need for surgical care, encouraging a global audience to acknowledge these narratives and advocate for change.

For further information on Operation Smile and the 'We Build Hope' campaign, visit operationsmile.org.

In conclusion, Operation Smile's 'We Build Hope' is a celebration of the strength found in surgical experiences. It calls for compassion, understanding, and a global commitment to making safe surgical care a reality for all, effectively reinforcing that access to healthcare is indeed a fundamental human right.