Making a Difference with Operation Smile: My Time in Mae Sot

Written by Nacha Tankongkarat, aka Muji

M.5 student at Triam Udom Suksa School

My aunt learned about Operation Smile through her friend and introduced me to the program. This organization’s work transforms countless children’s lives. Operation Smile helps children with cleft lips, cleft palates, burn wounds, and facial disfigurements. Most of the patients are Myanmar nationals who cross the border for treatment. I flew to Mae Sot province and stayed there for a four-day experience. I was excited to learn how the organization operates and to help child patients feel welcome and less distressed. I also wanted to learn more about the volunteer doctors and dentists.

On my first evening, I was briefed on what to do and what not to do, and I introduced myself to other student volunteers. We then packed 150 “smile bags” containing essentials like toothbrushes, cloths, mirrors, tissues, and soap. Since many patients’ families travel long distances to come here, giving them a smile bag helps ease their burden. On screening day, we stayed busy. First, we played with the children, handing out colorful toys and watching their faces light up with joy. Then, we decorated the wards. Decorating wasn’t just fun—it made me realize how small acts of kindness can have a big impact.

We also prepared thank-you gift bags for the volunteers, doctors, dentists, and photographers. Later, we had a Q&A session with Dr. Yoopared, a dentist and chairperson of Operation Smile. She shared her experiences as a dentist, her journey with the program, and her inspirations. I especially appreciated her honesty when talking about the challenges of being a dental student. Her insights were genuine and inspiring. That afternoon, our group spent time playing with children in the decorated wards and interviewing a few Thai parents. We also observed surgeries in the operating theater while wearing disposable scrubs. Before leaving the hospital, we had another Q&A session with Dr. Apichai, who explained how surgeries to fix cleft lips and palates are performed. Interacting with the children and witnessing the surgeries deepened my desire to help others.

On the final day, we visited Mae Tao Clinic, a facility that serves people who can’t access regular hospitals, mainly Myanmar nationals. While similar to a standard hospital, it operates with limited resources and provides affordable insurance for patients. This incredible experience made me care more deeply about healthcare and helping those in need. My time at Operation Smile gave me a better understanding of the importance of medical volunteer work and strengthened my compassion for patients. This experience didn’t just teach me about healthcare—it solidified my commitment to dedicating my future to helping people, just like the doctors and volunteers I met.