Roxann Barnes Pike's Miles for Smiles

There are many journeys in life. A rare opportunity for a “one of a kind” journey has come our way.  

This September, we will embark with a group of adventurous souls to trek the Camino de Santiago. It will be a six-day, 72-mile trek from the border of Portugal to the city of Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The purpose of this journey is to raise awareness and funds for Smile Network International. 

You should know two things; one, we will be paying our own expenses on this trip and two, every penny raised will go to sponsor surgeries for children on an upcoming surgical mission. 

About the Smile Network: 

Smile Network is a non-profit, Minnesota-based, humanitarian organization that takes teams of medical professionals to perform surgeries on children born with a cleft lip or palate. This organization is truly amazing because it is one of a few charities where almost everyone is a volunteer. The surgeons, anesthesiologists and nurses all volunteer their time and talents on these missions.  I have participated in many of these missions as a team leader and anesthesia provider, in Peru, Ecuador and Mexico.  I can attest firsthand to the amazing work that Smile Network does.   Many others associated with Smile Network are dedicated to raising awareness and money for the cause by participating in this trek, as well as helping with other fundraising events. 

For as little as $500 and in the space of 45 minutes, Smile Network volunteers can repair a child’s birth defect and restore joy and dignity to their lives. 

We feel blessed to be able to contribute to this miracle that happens in the lives of these children. The journey to fund a surgical mission begins today. Donations for any amount are welcome and very much appreciated.