When Sengly was born in Cambodia, his family quickly realized that something was very different. A large vascular tumor had developed on his upper lip, making something as simple as eating and breathing difficult for the little boy.

As Sengly grew, the condition affected more than just his health. Speaking his first words and making simple facial expressions became difficult and uncomfortable. Instead of being the carefree toddler his family hoped to see, Sengly became increasingly quiet and reserved.

His mother desperately wanted to find a way to help her son.

After the family submitted an application to the Little Baby Face Foundation, a surgical team arranged for Sengly and his mother to travel from Cambodia to New York City when he was just three years old.

His treatment would not be a quick journey. During a 12-week stay in New York, Sengly underwent four separate procedures to treat the condition and remove the tumor. Throughout their stay, he and his mother were provided accommodation at Ronald McDonald House at no cost to the family.

Slowly, something beautiful began to change.

As treatment progressed, Sengly became more comfortable. The quiet little boy who had rarely smiled began showing more of his personality. His reserved expression gradually gave way to the happy, playful child his family had always known was inside him.

“Seeing Sengly smile and become more confident has meant everything to us,” his family shared. “We only wanted him to have the chance to be a child without constantly worrying about his condition.”

After 12 weeks, Sengly and his mother finally returned home to Cambodia.

With the tumor fully removed and little visible evidence of his surgeries, Sengly can now eat, speak, smile and spend time with other children his age with far fewer difficulties.

For his family, the greatest transformation is not simply what changed on Sengly’s face — but the joy that has returned to his childhood.

“We are so grateful to everyone who gave our son this chance,” his family said. “Seeing him smile freely is something we will never take for granted.”

Source: Instagram