New Beginnings and Hopeful Optimism in Hue, Vietnam

On this day, the events at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy brought forth a heartwarming celebration of new beginnings. The first group of patients was discharged following successful surgeries, and the atmosphere in the ward was
nothing short of jubilant. Smiles and gratitude filled the room as children and their families expressed renewed hope for the future. Many parents shared their optimism, believing these surgeries would give their children a chance at a brighter path, full of confidence and self-worth.

Before the discharges were finalized, surgeons and the pediatrician conducted thorough post-operative reviews to ensure each patient was ready to leave in good health. Meanwhile, the surgical teams, led by Dr. Wally Chang and Dr. Eric Helling, maintained a steady pace in the operating room. They were joined by medical students and nurse observers from France, Australia, and the U.S. (an anesthesiology resident from the University of California San Francisco) who gained valuable insights from witnessing our team in action. It was a day that perfectly captured the spirit of Alliance for Smiles—bringing hope and creating opportunities for brighter tomorrows.