Valerie Tramack: 2026 Miles for Smiles Fundraiser

Life is full of journeys. This year, I’m honored to embark on one that is personally meaningful to me, while having the ability to support a tremendous cause that will make my experience even more memorable.

This September, I will walk the final 100 kilometers of the Camino Frances, also known as the French Way. This six-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 during an upcoming surgical mission.

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. 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. My goal is to raise $2,500, which will directly sponsor life-changing surgeries for five children.

Smile Network is a non-profit, Minnesota-based, humanitarian organization that performs surgeries on children born with a birth defect of a cleft lip or palate. This organization is truly amazing because it is one of a few charities where most everyone connected to it is a volunteer. The doctors, nurses, and anesthesiologists all volunteer their time and talent on the surgical missions, as well as individuals like us who are dedicated to raising awareness and money for the cause by participating in this trek. 

By joining this trek, I am proud to play a part in raising awareness and funds to support this life-changing work. Together, we can bring smiles to children around the world.

Your support means the world to me and the children who will benefit from these surgeries. Every donation, no matter the size, truly makes a difference.

Your contribution is fully tax-deductible.

Thank you for joining me on this journey to create smiles that will last a lifetime.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Val Tramack