Let's Make Miracles!

I am so excited I can hardly stand it! Last week, Close To My Heart announced our "Make A Miracle" Challenge in partnership with Operation Smile. I absolutely love Operation Smile and have deep admiration for Dr. Bill and Kathy Magee, its selfless, humble, hard-working founders. 

A few years ago, I was able to serve with the Magees on an international medical mission where skilled doctors and nurses volunteered their talents to repair facial deformities on children in Mexico. They worked capably, they worked fast, and in just the space of a few days, scores of children—and their grateful parents—left the hospital with big, genuine smiles to last a lifetime. David and I were so honored to be a part of that mission; it truly changed my life as I wept with joyous parents or bonded with these sweet, beautiful children. I will never forget that experience and it has made me a lifelong advocate for Operation Smile.

More than anything, I want to share that extraordinary opportunity with someone. And thanks to the Make A Miracle Challenge, IT COULD BE YOU. 

That's right! With support from Operation Smile, Close To My Heart will be sending one Consultant on an Operation Smile international medical mission to work as a volunteer later this spring. It is my hope and prayer that every Close To My Heart Consultant sees this as an opportunity to learn more, to get involved and to make a difference in the life of a child who so desperately needs to be given a chance. There can be only one Consultant who "wins" the trip, but I promise you that we all win when we contribute to this exceptional organization. And unlike many of our contests and promotions, this one is not founded on top sales or top recruiting—it's founded on PASSION. If you have the passion for the work of Operation Smile, you have a great opportunity to share in it first hand.

Here are some great facts about their recent accomplishments: in 2011, Operation Smile completed 164 medical missions in 124 different sites around the world. With more than 300,000 volunteer hours, they were able to provide life-changing surgery to a record 18,086 patients last year! What I love about this organization is their tireless zeal—they are determined to touch even more children in 2012, and with your contributions, WE can make that a reality!

To learn a little more about Operation Smile and Close To My Heart's Make A Miracle Challenge, I invite you to watch this video. Then let's work to make MANY miracles together!