Imagine carrying a visible reminder of a traumatic event, one that immediately draws attention. For many, a scar on the face can lead to feelings of insecurity and isolation. But not for Carryn. Despite the scar on her upper lip, left by a dog bite when she was just 12, she faces life with resilience. Working in the hospitality industry, Carryn has met the world with a brave face, despite the discomfort and self-consciousness her scar caused.

It’s stories like Carryn’s that touch the heart of Dr. Ansua Steyn. Through the Dr Ansua Foundation, Dr Steyn has dedicated herself to transforming lives like Carryn’s by offering medical care to those who would otherwise go without. In a world where reconstructive surgery is often inaccessible to underprivileged individuals, Dr. Steyn steps in to bridge that gap, ensuring people can lead a normal life, free from the burdens of physical and emotional scars.

Carryn was only 12 when a dog bite left her with a scar on her lip, a wound that never healed properly. Over the years, the scar developed into a painful, unsightly blister that affected more than just her appearance—it weighed heavily on her emotional well-being. The physical discomfort was one thing, but the emotional toll was far greater. Carryn often felt self-conscious, withdrawing from social situations and struggling with a loss of confidence.

Despite her attempts to carry on, the scar was a constant reminder of the accident. It affected how she viewed herself and interacted with others, limiting her ability to fully embrace life.

Enter Dr Ansua Steyn, a renowned surgeon known for her expertise and compassionate approach. When Carryn crossed paths with Dr. Steyn, she immediately recognized the young woman’s potential and her struggle. Carryn had seen Dr. Steyn’s work in the community and knew this was her chance for healing.

After a consultation, Dr Steyn presented Carryn with two options: either balance the appearance of her lips by enlarging the unaffected side or remove the mass on the scarred side to restore symmetry. Carryn chose the latter. With local anaesthesia and the precision Dr Steyn is known for, the procedure was performed swiftly and successfully. An incision was made inside Carryn’s lip, and the mass was carefully removed, leaving her with a renewed sense of hope.

Although nervous about the surgery, Carryn’s trust in Dr. Steyn’s expertise reassured her. The procedure went off without a hitch, and Dr. Steyn’s gentle, caring demeanour made all the difference.

Two weeks after the surgery, Dr. Steyn met with Carryn again, this time at her workplace. The transformation was clear—not only had Carryn’s lip healed beautifully, but her entire demeanour had changed. Her once swollen lip was now symmetrical, and she radiated newfound confidence.

The emotional healing had begun. For Carryn, this procedure wasn’t just about removing a scar—it was about reclaiming her self-esteem, her sense of self, and the opportunities she felt she had missed out on. Grateful beyond words, Carryn expressed her deep thanks to Dr Steyn and the Dr Ansua Foundation for giving her back her confidence and her life.

Carryn’s story is just one of many. The Dr Ansua Foundation has spent the past year transforming lives through medical procedures that would otherwise be out of reach for many. By offering reconstructive surgery to those in need, the foundation doesn’t just change appearances—it restores dignity, confidence, and the ability to fully engage with life.

Through their work, the foundation has touched the lives of countless individuals, giving them the chance to start anew. It’s this impact that fuels Dr. Steyn and her team, knowing that every procedure brings someone closer to living a life they thought was beyond their grasp.

While Dr Ansua Steyn and her team donate their time and expertise, the foundation still relies on community support to cover the costs of medical supplies and facilities. Every contribution helps keep this vital work going, ensuring that more people like Carryn can experience the life-changing effects of reconstructive surgery.

If Carryn’s story resonates with you, consider making a donation. No amount is too small, and every bit helps transform another life.

In a world where a small act of kindness can change a life, the work of the Dr Ansua Foundation shines brightly. By offering life-changing surgeries to those who need them most, they give people like Carryn not just a new appearance, but a new lease on life. Join us in making a difference—together, we can continue to transform lives, one surgery at a time.