Timorese girl Nore Santos, just 3 years old and hailing from the mountainous region of Manatuto, was born with a third-degree cleft lip. Due to her family's financial difficulties and the isolation of their community, her family never imagined that this condition could be treated through surgery.

In October 2023, the tenth Chinese medical team arrived in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste. The team leader, Luo Wei, explained that upon learning about the implementation of a cleft lip and palate treatment program for children in Timor-Leste, he quickly initiated preparations, from case screening to organizing hospital beds and defining the surgical plan.

Nore's story is an example of the ongoing work of the Chinese medical team in Timor-Leste. From introducing new technologies and improving healthcare infrastructure, to training local doctors and advancing the country's medical field, the team has illuminated the lives of countless patients with their expertise and dedication.

(Source: XINHUA Portuguese, on March 2)