Just over two years ago, my son Shane was born with an internal cleft palate.  As stressful as things like special feeding and surgery were at times, we had fantastic support from medical professionals here in the UK.  Though a big deal for our family, in many ways, Shane's surgery was 'routine' and he is now doing very well.

Unfortunately, many children in poorer parts of the world don't benefit from the same support that we received.  Shane's cleft was a relatively straightforward thing.  For other children it can be life threatening.  It's a tragic situation.

Thankfully, organisations like Operation Smile are doing something about it!  In their own words:

Our approach to solving the problem globally leaves a lasting legacy of training, skills and medical equipment around the world. International medical volunteers and projects allow us to not only carry out free reconstructive cleft lip and cleft palate surgery, but also to develop self-sustaining networks throughout the world. Local care centres provide yet more opportunities for children to be treated as well as year-round care and more in-country educational opportunities for local medical staff.  (http://www.operationsmile.org.uk/how-we-work/)

The Craggy Island Triathlon is an exciting (perhaps gruelling -- or both -- depending on your perspective) all off-road triathlon that takes place on the island of Kerrera... the first step is a swim to the island from the town of Oban!  Then there's a 14k mountain bike route around the island and, to finish it off, an 8K hill run (what more info? See here: http://goo.gl/6SfcF8)

Any donations to Operation Smile are greatly appreciated!