Facing Africa

Dr. Wentz learned of a life-altering and debilitating disease brought about by extreme poverty and chronic malnutrition called Noma. This devastating gangrenous infection starts in the mouth and spreads quickly to disfigure the face. It mostly affects children, usually under the age of 6. During his subsequent research, Dr. Wentz discovered Facing Africa. Founded in 1998 by Chris Lawrence and Allan Thom, this not-for-profit charity sends highly-skilled, volunteer surgical teams into the heart of Ethiopia several times a year to provide facial reconstructive surgeries for the victims of Noma. Dr. Wentz was so heartened by this organization's work that he sponsored Facing Africa's May 2016 mission to Ethiopia. He plans to continue offering his assistance and support in the battle against Noma.