In early 2025, the vibrant city of Cebu in the Philippines became the backdrop for a poignant milestone. Dr. Angelo Capozzi, co-founder and longtime Medical Director of Rotaplast International, was part of the 20th surgical mission to Cebu City. His final mission as a surgeon was a fitting culmination to a lifetime devoted to transforming the lives of children born with cleft lip and palate deformities. Though this marked his last mission in the operating room, Dr. Capozzi’s commitment to healing continues. He will remain a guiding force, offering mentorship and clinical support to the next generation of surgeons, ensuring that his legacy of compassion and expertise endures for years to come.
Before founding Rotaplast in 1992, Dr. Capozzi participated in his first international surgical mission with Interplast (now ReSurge International) in Mexicali, Mexico, in 1976. He continued to serve with Interplast for the next 14 years.
For over 30 years, Dr. Capozzi has stood as a pillar of compassion, innovation, and leadership in the world of humanitarian medicine. Under his guidance, Rotaplast has provided over 20,000 life-changing surgeries across the globe, delivering not only medical care but also hope, dignity, and brighter futures to countless families.
As always, Dr. Capozzi led the Cebu mission with humility and heart, joining hands with a team of dedicated volunteers to perform 90+ of procedures over the course of the mission. Among them was one of his final patients, a young child whose life would be forever changed by Dr. Capozzi’s skilled hands and generous spirit.
Join the Mission
Rotaplast International continues to seek volunteers and support to expand its reach and transform more lives. To learn more about upcoming missions or to contribute to Rotaplast International, visit https://rotaplast.org/.