Susan Cain: 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 an important one to me is my first trek in support of Smile Network International.  In September, I will walk the final 100 kilometers of the Camino Francés, also known as the French Way. This five-day, 62-mile trek will start in Sarria and end in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. My mission is to raise awareness and funds for Smile Network International, ensuring that every penny collected goes toward sponsoring surgeries for children.  

 You should know two things: one, that I am paying all my own expenses on this trip, and two, every penny raised will go directly to sponsor surgeries for children.  My goal is to raise $2,500. For as little as $500 and in 45 minutes, Smile Network can repair a child’s birth defect and restore joy and dignity to their lives. 

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 can help support this life-changing work. Together, we can help children receive the care they need—and the future they deserve.  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,

Susan Cain