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Partnership between KSC and Dr. Brian Sommerlad brings life-changing surgeries for children with cleft lip and palate conditions in Kurdistan Region.
SLEMANI – Kurdistan Save the Children (KSC) is proud to highlight its continued commitment to improving the lives of children with cleft lip and palate conditions, thanks to the expertise of Consultant Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brian Sommerlad-CLEFT chairman.
Since 2012, Dr. Sommerlad’s visits to Slemani have been integral in advancing specialized care for children affected by these congenital conditions. In partnership with the Slemani General Directorate of Health and the Slemani Burn, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Hospital, KSC has helped establish the region's first dedicated center for cleft lip and palate treatment—now known as The Sommerlad Center. This center serves as a critical resource for comprehensive care, offering hope to children and families in the region.
Through KSC’s coordination and support, Dr. Sommerlad has conducted 11 visits to the Kurdistan Region, assessing more than 70 children and performing 12 to 16 life-changing surgeries during each visit. These vital procedures, which would typically cost upwards of $25,000 per patient in private hospitals, are made accessible at no charge thanks to the collaborative efforts of KSC, Dr. Sommerlad and the medical team at Slemani Burn, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Hospital.
KSC is equally committed to ensuring long-term solutions for cleft care. In addition to providing direct medical support, KSC works alongside Dr. Sommerlad to build local capacity through both theoretical and practical training for Slemani’s surgeons. This initiative is designed to ensure that the region continue to provide expert care for children with cleft conditions, even after Dr. Sommerlad’s visits have concluded.
Beyond medical treatment, KSC is amplifying the voices of the children whose lives have been transformed through these surgeries. Exhibitions showcasing their success stories have raised awareness about the challenges and triumphs of living with cleft lip and palate, highlighting the importance of specialized care and community support.
As Dr. Sommerlad prepares for his next visit, with plans to perform 16 additional surgeries, KSC remains steadfast in its commitment to providing hope and a brighter future for children with congenital anomalies. Together, we are working toward a future where every child can smile, thrive and live a fulfilling life.
About KSC
KSC is a non-profit, non-political and non-sectarian organization that provides assistance to children regardless of race, gender, political or religious affiliation. It operates through four essential programs: Child Protection, Education, Health and Youth Ability Development as well as emergency relief during disasters.
KSC’s main aim is to work directly or indirectly to ensure a better future for children by improving and providing their various medical, social, economic and educational needs.
KSC was co-founded in 1991 by Hero Ibrahim Ahmad and Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmad, currently First Lady of Iraq.
For more information
Contact: press@ksc-kcf.org
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