Elizabeth Gillies Celebrates World Smile Day with Smile Train
In a heartwarming event at the Empire State Building, actress and singer Elizabeth Gillies, renowned as a Smile Train ambassador, helped light up the world with smiles on World Smile Day. Smile Train, the leading global organization dedicated to treating cleft conditions, partnered with Gillies for this iconic celebration.
The Significance of World Smile Day
World Smile Day is celebrated every first Friday in October. It is a day aimed at inspiring kind acts and making others smile. Launched in 1999, this day reminds us of the power of a simple smile. This year, Gillies took center stage alongside Smile Train's leadership, including CEO Susannah Schaefer, to shine a light on the importance of cleft care for children worldwide.
Lighting Up the Empire State Building
As part of this initiative, the Empire State Building was illuminated in Smile Train's signature blue color, symbolizing hope and solidarity for millions of children affected by cleft lip and palate. Gillies and Schaefer expressed the profound impact of cleft treatment during a brief ceremony where they flipped the ceremonial switch, marking a momentous occasion.
Impact of Smile Train's Mission
Since its establishment, Smile Train has performed over 2 million cleft surgeries in collaboration with local healthcare professionals across more than 95 countries. Schaefer remarked, "These are not just numbers; they represent lives changed and families supported through essential care. Every surgery means a world of difference for the patients and their communities." This celebration not only showcased the achievements of Smile Train but also the ongoing need for support in cleft care.
A Collective Global Celebration
Alongside the Empire State Building, various iconic landmarks around the world glowed in support of this cause. From the BT Tower in London to the Gateway of India, many prominent locations participated in this global display of solidarity. Gillies remarked on the critical nature of cleft conditions, saying, "Clefts can significantly affect a child's ability to eat and breathe. By partnering with Smile Train, I hope to raise awareness and highlight the life-changing work being done to assist these children and their families."
Encouraging Support and Kindness
As the initiative spread joy and smiles globally, Smile Train encouraged everyone to engage in simple acts of kindness, inspiring additional support for children in need of cleft surgeries. Through education and awareness, the event aimed to eradicate the stigma surrounding cleft conditions while promoting the message of compassion and community support.
About Smile Train
Smile Train is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children suffering from cleft lips and palates. By providing local medical professionals with necessary training, funding, and resources, Smile Train has created a scalable global health model that allows for sustainable cleft care. Their innovative approach transforms lives not only immediately after surgery but also ensures long-term benefits for each child and their family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is World Smile Day?
World Smile Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of October with the intention of promoting kindness and encouraging acts that bring joy to others.
Who is Elizabeth Gillies?
Elizabeth Gillies is an actress and singer known for her work in television and her role as an ambassador for Smile Train, supporting children with cleft conditions.
What is Smile Train's mission?
Smile Train provides free cleft surgeries and comprehensive care to children around the world, empowering local professionals to create sustainable change.
How many surgeries has Smile Train performed?
Since its inception in 1999, Smile Train has provided over 2 million safe and high-quality cleft surgeries, changing countless lives.
How can I support Smile Train?
You can support Smile Train by raising awareness, sharing their mission, and contributing through donations to help children receive the care they need.
