Ellen Rindal: 2026 Miles for Smiles Fundraiser

A child’s first smile can change everything. It can mean the chance to eat without pain, to speak without fear, and to walk into school with confidence instead of shame. This year, I am walking to help give that gift.

Life is full of journeys, and this year I am honored to embark on my third trek in support of Smile Network International. Each journey has been deeply meaningful and spiritual—and remarkably, it never grows old. This trek will be especially memorable, as I will turn 66 years old along the way. At this stage of my life, I feel incredibly blessed to have good health, strong legs, and tolerant feet to carry me forward.

In September, I will walk the final 100 kilometers of the Camino Francés, also known as the French Way. Over five days, I will journey from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. While the walk itself is powerful, my true mission is to raise awareness and funds for a cause that is very close to my heart: Smile Network International.

My goal is to raise funds that will directly sponsor life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries for more than 10 children in León, Mexico. Every penny donated will go straight to this mission—I personally cover all travel and trekking expenses.

To further amplify your generosity, I will match every dollar donated up to $5,000 with my own personal funds.

Smile Network International is a Minnesota-based nonprofit that provides free cleft lip and palate surgeries to children in under-resourced communities around the world. The impact is profound. These surgeries don’t just repair smiles—they restore health, dignity, and opportunity. What makes Smile Network truly extraordinary is its volunteer spirit. All medical volunteers donate their time and expertise to make these missions possible.

By taking part in this trek, I am proud to support this life-changing work. Together, we can help children receive the care they need—and the future they deserve.

Your support means the world to me—and even more to the children whose lives will be forever changed. Every gift, no matter the size, truly makes a difference.

Your contribution is fully tax-deductible.

Thank you for walking this journey with me—and for helping create smiles that will last a lifetime.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Ellen Rindal