Coinciding with the Batangas Surgical Program of May 2024, Operation Smile Philippines successfully conducted its first Nutrition Camp, an activity aimed at supporting deferred patients due to malnutrition and underage from the surgical program. This initiative marked a significant step forward in enhancing the health and well-being of children under five years old as they wait for cleft surgery.
The primary objectives of the activity were to increase knowledge about cleft conditions, provide education on optimal nutrition, and equip parents and guardians with practical skills in safe food preparation.
Raising Awareness and Educating Families
The camp offered comprehensive information about cleft conditions, helping parents understand the importance of good nutrition in managing their child’s health and preparing for surgery.
Cooking Demonstration
A significant portion of the camp was dedicated to hands-on demonstrations of proper food preparation techniques. The parents and guardians were guided through the process of preparing balanced, nutritious meals tailored to the needs of children with cleft conditions. These practical sessions aimed to empower families with the skills needed to support their children’s health and recovery.
Provision of Nutrition Kits
In addition to educational sessions, each family received a nutrition kit packed with essential materials. These kits included resources such as nutritional guides, meal planning tips, and tools designed to help with food preparation. The goal was to ensure that families have the necessary support to create a conducive environment for their child’s pre-surgery preparation and recovery.
As the first event of its kind in the history of the organization in the Philippines, the nutrition camp sets a new standard for patient support programs. It addresses the immediate nutritional needs of children awaiting surgery and empowers their guardians to effectively manage their child’s dietary needs at home.
Operation Smile Philippines is committed to continue its efforts in supporting patients and their families as part of its comprehensive cleft care approach. The nutrition camp has laid a strong foundation for future programs aimed at enhancing the overall health and quality of life for children as they await their life-changing surgery.