For over twenty years, the association Les Enfants du Noma, founded by plastic surgeon Dr. Philippe Bellity, has led a remarkable humanitarian mission. It provides free surgery for children suffering from Noma, a devastating infectious disease that strikes the poorest populations in the world’s most disadvantaged regions.
Still largely unknown, Noma destroys facial tissue, leading to social exclusion, psychological trauma, and without quick treatment, death. To combat this, Les Enfants du Noma sends several surgical missions each year to countries in Africa and Asia, with teams of volunteer medical professionals fully committed to this cause.
A Long-Standing and Meaningful Partnership
The Air France Foundation has proudly supported this association for over 15 years. Thanks to miles donated by passengers and Air France’s support in transporting excess baggage free of charge, medical teams and equipment can be flown to countries where children are in urgent need of surgery.
This partnership makes it possible to offer hundreds of children each year a new face. Healed smiles bring hope back to life.
Real Impact on the Ground
In 2025, several missions supported by the Air France Foundation illustrate the dedication of these humanitarian teams:
- In Guinea Conakry, one mission treated over 80 young patients. These actions of solidarity were praised by local health authorities and diplomatic representatives. The deeply grateful families could finally see their children freed from the burden of illness.
- In Cameroon, a mission in Douala provided consultations to 55 children, and 34 were selected for surgery. Many of the cases are complex and will require multiple operations.
- In Laos, a major consultation took place at the Hospital of Friendship in Vientiane. Dozens of children with facial deformities were examined alongside local teams, with future surgeries already planned.
These are just a few examples of a constant commitment: since its creation, the association has led over 100 missions worldwide and has provided free surgery to more than 5,000 children.
A Chain of Solidarity
Each mission relies on careful coordination and close partnerships with local hospitals. The involvement of volunteer healthcare professionals such as surgeons, anesthetists, nurses and logisticians is key to reaching children who would otherwise be left in isolation.
Each person involved plays a vital role, gives their time and energy and helps contribute to changing lives.
Together with the Air France Foundation, giving a child a face also means giving them a place in society and a chance to learn, to laugh, and to dream.