I’m Elizabeth Alberti and I was born in 2007 with a unilateral cleft lip and palate. Having a cleft hasn't been easy, but I recognize that if I'd been born outside of the U.S. with my cleft, I could have struggled to survive or lived a life of shame and torment. Fortunately, I have had access to the best surgical care available, which makes me feel the need to be the voice for those who don't.

My surgeon, Dr. Arun Gosain, along with two other members of the Lurie Children’s Hospital plastic surgery team, participated this year in Operation Smile’s 2019 Paraguay Mission in Asuncion, Paraguay. I’m so inspired by their commitment to cleft-affected children without access to medical care, and in their honor, I am on a Mission to Fund a Mission, providing over 120 surgeries through Operation Smile for children born with my cleft condition (with a fundraising goal of $28,800)!

Will you support me by becoming a TEAM WE member to raise money, contribute to my Smile Fund or share my story? Follow Team-WE on Facebook!

For as little as $240 and in as few as 45 minutes, Operation Smile can provide life-changing surgery – and renewed hope- for children around the world. Please, consider making your tax-deductible gift today.

Thanks for all of your love and support,

Elizabeth