Dental News - Live Oak Bank makes charitable contribution to Operation Smile

Dental Tribune International

Thu. 7 July 2011

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WILMINGTON, N.C., USA: With a US$1,000 donation, Live Oak Bank will fund cleft palate operations for four children. The provider of loans to independent veterinary businesses, dentists and pharmacists is supporting Operation Smile, an international medical humanitarian organisation that provides reconstructive surgery for children and young adults born with cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformities.

“The bank wanted to contribute to the dental community and back the volunteers who use their specialised skills to operate on these children,” commented Keith Merklin, Senior Loan Officer at Live Oak Bank. “Along with performing the surgeries, we appreciate that Operation Smile also pushes education and research. Aside from the physical scars, these children suffer socially so to be granted the surgical procedure is a life-changing opportunity. Our relationship and commitment to Operation Smile is one we hope to foster for years to come.”

“Most people do not realise that cleft lips and palates are the fourth largest birth defect with an estimated 200,000 children born with the abnormality each year,” stated Beth Marshall, Founder of Operation Smile Carolinas. “Thousands of children are left untreated each year, so we appreciate the financial support we received from Live Oak Bank. In just 45 minutes and with only US$240 per patient, a single surgery can forever change a child’s life.”

Founded in 1982, Operation Smile has treated 160,000 patients across 51 countries and transformed the lives of 13,000 children in 2010 alone. Through the help of companies like Live Oak Bank, they hope to beat that record in 2011.

For additional information about Live Oak Bank, please visit www.liveoakbank.com.

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